From the President

To support legislation and regulations beneficial to federal civilian employees and annuitants and potential annuitants under any federal civilian retirement system and to oppose those detrimental to their interests.

To promote the general welfare of federal civilian employees and annuitants and potential annuitants, to advise and assist them with respect to their rights under retirement, health and other employee and retiree benefits laws and regulations, and to represent their interests before appropriate authorities.

To cooperate with other organizations and associations in furtherance of these general objectives.

In 1985, Congress officially designated the first full week in May as Public Service Recognition Week (PSRW). It’s a time to honor the people who serve our nation as employees of federal, state, county and local governments. PSRW is celebrated throughout the country by mayors, governors, community leaders, government agencies and public service organizations with proclamations, award ceremonies, special tribute events and messages about the value of public service.

Amid the pandemic and the unprecedented challenges this past year, civil servants have displayed resilience and dedication to their work. They have helped research and find treatments for the coronavirus, and they’ve supported our small businesses, schools, national parks and infrastructure. These workers appreciate sincere recognition from their managers, supervisors, colleagues and community members. Public Service Recognition Week provides you with an opportunity to say “thank you” to civil servants for their service.

Employee recognition is sometimes scarce because managers or supervisors think too narrowly about what people will find rewarding and what constitutes true recognition. They don’t always know how to provide employee recognition effectively, assuming that one size fits all. But it’s worthwhile to learn how to give positive feedback; when employees feel valued at work, it increases engagement, productivity and loyalty. Employees who feel appreciated are happier and more productive. Recognition shows employees that they are valued and they are not invisible.

Managers and supervisors should create goals and action plans for employee recognition. Acknowledge the actions, behaviors, approaches and accomplishments that you know will make your organization more productive and efficient. When an individual performs positively, provide recognition immediately, and be specific. Make sure that fairness, clarity and consistency are prioritized in employee recognition. Employees need to see that each person who makes a similar contribution has an equal likelihood of receiving recognition for their efforts.

Remember, it’s not necessary to wait until the first full week of May to honor the people who serve the public. Don’t miss your opportunity to thank civil servants for their service, not only during Public Service Recognition Week, but also throughout the year.

Stay safe.

natpres@narfe.org