A Salute to Public Service

In an era of intense scrutiny on the way government works (or doesn't work), it is important to take a step back from the national headlines and rhetoric and realize that the vast majority of government functions are carried out by our neighbors and friends. Regular citizens that have chosen to work for city, state, and federal agencies are the key to making sure our streets are clean and safe, the elderly have programs that keep them active and engaged, our schools are meeting the unique needs of our community, and so much more.

 

With this in mind, the GovLoop NextGen Public Service Awards seemed more needed than ever before. This awards program is designed to give public servants the recognition they deserve. Nominations were open for individuals that demonstrate a commitment to improving government through their intelligence, exuberance, or dedication (and maybe all three). This summer, thirty finalists were announced in five categories. The finalists and category descriptions from GovLoop are included here (winner names are bolded):[Tweet "Congratulations to the @nextgengov Public Service Award Winners! #GovEventsBlog"] Continue reading

Recognizing Public Service

public serviceFor over 30 years Public Service Recognition Week has been honoring the men and women who serve our nation as federal, state, county and local government employees. The goal of this event is to raise the recognition both within the government and citizenship at large of the 20 million people who make our government run.[Tweet "Public Service Week May 1-7: Honoring the 20 million people who make government run. #GovEventsBlog"]

Recognition Week is organized annually by the Public Employees Roundtable (PER) and includes a number of events May 1-7. The week will kick off with a 5K run that includes other health and wellness events. Proceeds from the race will be donated to the Federal Employee Education and Assistance Fund. The group has also organized outings to DC area sporting events. Federal employees outside of DC are invited to participate virtually by organizing their own events across the country. All of these events are designed to celebrate public servants and draw attention to the critical role they play in our government.[Tweet "Events are designed to celebrate public servants and the role they play in government. #GovEventBlog"] Continue reading

Professional Use of Social Media: Two Different Approaches

Originally posted on GovLoop by Alain Lemay

Professional use of social media in the workplace is arguably one of the last taboo in public sector. Public Sector Organizations (PSOs) more than any other have a need, real or perceived, to control the message. Having dozens, hundreds, or even thousands of employees Tweeting away on behalf of the organization is no one's idea of controlling the message. And yet, the potential for message amplification is very enticing.

Message amplification is, after all, one of the superpowers of social media. No matter how many followers your account might have, it is a nothing compared to the combined networks of your employees. It is this realization that has convinced more and more PSOs to encourage employees to use their personal accounts to become brand ambassadors and help toe the company line.

Continue reading