Non-supervisory employees should play an active role in the performance management
process. By being proactive, employees can ensure their own success through:
Working
with supervisors to clarify and define reasonable annual
goals and critical elements.
Creating
open lines of communication with supervisors so
that expectations are clearly expressed throughout the
year, not just during progress reviews and final appraisals.
Identifying
development or training needed to achieve critical elements
or further one's career.
Relieving
the stress of the unknown. In other words, if an employee
helps his or
her supervisor establish
reasonable expectations, then the employee knows how
to focus his or her efforts. Nothing should be a surprise.
Demonstrating
dedication to the job. Career gains and promotions are
achieved when employees
engage with their responsibilities and duties. Showing
this level of interest is important to managers and supervisors.
Definition A Critical Element is a mission-based outcome or end product which is essential
to overall success in the position. Remember that an employee could potentially
receive a Does Not Meet Expectations" rating
and be removed from the Federal service for failure to satisfy the requirements
of a critical element.