There is widespread dissatisfaction with the system for hiring into the Federal civil service. Perhaps it is worth examining how well the Government is living up to what I call the four core values of that system. They are:

1. Hiring must be merit-based, with selection “determined solely on the basis of relative ability, knowledge, and skills.”
2. There must be “fair and open competition” for Federal jobs “which assures that all receive equal opportunity.”
3. The Government should “endeavor to achieve a workforce from all segments of society.”
4. Military veterans shall receive preference for Federal jobs[1].

Few would argue with the wisdom of these values in the abstract, but in practice, the first three values appear underemphasized.

Before looking at outcomes in federal hiring, however, it is worthwhile to recount how the environment for Federal hiring has changed in recent decades. Key changes include: ….. (For more, click here.)

Do you agree that the first three values appear under-emphasized? If yes, which of the following–competition for Federal jobs should be more fair and open, the under-representation of women and non-veterans should be addressed, and managers should have more opportunities to select the best-qualified applicants–do you feel are most essential to bringing the four core values into balance?