Frequently Asked Questions Advanced Search

Refine by Topic

• Assessment Policy
• Benefits for LGBT Federal Employees and Annuitants
• Classification
• Combined Federal Campaign
• Contracting and Acquisition
• Cybersecurity Information
• Diversity and Inclusion
• Employee Relations
• Employment
• Furlough
• Insurance
• Investigations
• Open Data
• Open Government
• Pandemic
• Pay & Leave
• Performance Management
• Personnel Documentation
• Policy on Political Appointees
• Qualifications
• Retirement
• Senior Executive Service
• Suitability Executive Agent
• Telework
• Thrift Savings Program (TSP)
• Training
• USAJOBS
• Veterans
• Work Life
• Workforce Information

• Do I need to address each Fundamental Competency within each Executive Core Qualification (ECQ)?
  No. Because the Fundamental Competencies are cross-cutting, they should be addressed over the course of the ECQ narrative. It is not necessary to address them directly as long as the narrative, in...
• The minimum weight for the “Results Driven” performance element under the basic system description is different from the 60% results-focused requirement OPM had in past years. What does this mean?
  This system aims to balance the results-focused performance element, which remains a critical part of a well-rounded performance appraisal plan, with the other leadership responsibilities of Federal executives.  Agencies now...
• What are the 3 types of Qualifications Review Board (QRB) cases?
  Criterion A cases are based on demonstrated executive experience. Candidates must demonstrate that they have experience/competence in all 5 ECQs. Criterion B cases are based on successful participation in an OPM approved SES...
• What's the difference between SES, ST, and SL positions?
  In an agency covered by the Senior Executive Service (SES), SES positions include positions classified above GS-15 that include duties involving one or more of the functional criteria (executive or...
• What does the SES insignia symbolize?
  The SES insignia or emblem represents a keystone -- the center stone that holds all the stones of an arch in place. This represents the critical role of the SES...
• Is there any program that will help me prepare to become an SES member?
  Yes.  SES Candidate Development Programs are competitive programs designed to develop the executive qualifications of employees with strong executive potential.  Participation in an SESCDP is not a prerequisite for obtaining...
• Can a non-SES employee be detailed to an SES position?
  Yes. When detailed, an individual temporarily leaves his/her position of record but retains his/her pay and benefits. Agencies must compete any detail to an SES position that could result in...
• If I send OPM my written responses to the Executive Core Qualifications (ECQs), will you give me your opinion and any suggestions for improvements?
  No. OPM will not pre-review ECQ statements. To do so would be a conflict of interest since we administer the Qualification Review Boards, and would also provide the requestor with an...
• What’s an Executive Development Plan?
  An Executive Development Plan is a document completed by an executive to plan developmental activities over a period of time.  Developmental activities may include classroom and online training, developmental assignments,...
• Will there be a cost to my agency to implement the basic system description?
  Implementation of the new basic system template does not involve a fixed charge; however, agencies will need to engage in a number of important activities to ensure successful implementation (e.g.,...

• 1
• 2
• 3
• Next