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A New Call to Service for an Age of Savvy Altruism: Public Attitudes About Government Service
August 4, 2004
Understanding how to best recruit and hire a talented and motivated federal workforce is of critical importance. This study’s key conclusions include:
- Despite long-standing negative stereotypes about government work, the research shows that Americans have a favorable impression of the federal government.
- The choice of words used to describe federal employees makes a huge difference.
- A perception that the federal government is overly bureaucratic is the major hurdle that must be overcome in order to attract top talent into government.
- Job seekers are searching for a culture that promotes creativity and innovation.
- Future recruiting must blend a call to public service with a picture of the practical benefits of working for the government.
- Supporters of improved recruiting and retention of federal workers on both sides of the aisle must make a real investment in reaching out and educating Americans.