Ames Federal Employees Union

As the Center rolls through performance evaluations, I give the following recommendations:

Unlike signing plans, I recommend you sign your EPCS evaluation, whether you agree with it or not. Ask for a photocopy. Signing it is simply signifying receipt, not agreement. If you disagree with your evaluation, you can check the box asking for reconsideration, but I am not fond of this checkbox either. See below as to why.

Management can show you your evaluation, which must include the element and summary rating checkboxes checked, but they are not required to get your signature and they will file your evaluation with “employee refused to sign” in the signature block if you do not sign.

Obviously, this looks bad for you, if you are planning on bucking for a promotion or transfer, as it looks like you’re uncooperative. I also think the checkbox for reconsideration is similar. Lastly, I strongly discourage filing additional documentation that seems combative or shows disagreement. File all of the “kudos” and positive news about your performance as you see fit.

If you disagree (significantly) with your rating, whether in the text or the actual rating checkboxes, talk to the Union stewards and consider filing a grievance.

Now, previously, I would have said you have time to consider filing a grievance, but given the recent ruling regarding pay discrimination, which has an effect on the understanding of the legal concept of “continuing practice”, I think you may be limited to 30 days from seeing your evaluation to file.

– Chris Knight, Chief Steward, AFEU, IFPTE #30