This report describes the similarities and differences between 5 U.S.C. par. 4303, and 7513, the two sections of the law that authorize an agency to take an adverse action against a Federal employee for poor performance. In that context, the report addresses the limited ability of the law to address the underlying challenges of a performance-based action. Poor performers are a serious concern for the Federal workforce, and one that the Government has historically had difficulties addressing. However, as this report explains, the biggest obstacle to addressing poor performers in the Federal Government is not created by a statute, but rather is simply a question of how supervisors manage the performance of their employees. Illustrations.

Examines the effectiveness of Fed. first-level supervisors and how well agencies select, develop, and manage them. First-line supervisors, as the nexus between gov¿t. policy and action, are critical to productivity, employee engagement, and workplace fairness. Supervisory positions -- even at the first level -- have distinctive responsibilities and skill requirements. Therefore, it is essential that agencies have valid selection criteria and processes, comprehensive training programs, good communication and support networks, and sound accountability mechanisms for their first-level supervisors. In addition, this report recommends specific measures to improve supervisors management and performance. Charts and tables.

Focuses on how leaders can drive employee engagement and increase high performance mgmt.; i.e., the actions leaders from first-line supervisors to exec. can take to facilitate the motivation and commitment of their employees. The effort leaders invest in managing their workforce pays off in substantially higher levels of employee engagement and performance. The recommendations it offers for increasing both engagement and performance can be characterized in three words: communication, connection, and courage. These are the foundation of performance mgmt. -- communicating openly and honestly with employees, connecting with them as people to build good working relationships, and demonstrating the courage to address and resolve problems. Illus.