1 | Page

Federal Retirement Thrift Investment Board

Federal Employee Viewpoint Survey Results: 2021 

Annual Employee Survey (AES) Summary Report
2 | Page

Core Survey Questions

Q1-10, 12 - 44

Item Item Text: 

Response

Type

Percent

Positive

Strongly

Agree/ 

Very

Good/ 

Very

Satisfied

%

Agree/

Good/

Satisfied

%

Neither

Agree nor

Disagree/

Fair/ 

Neither

Satisfied 

nor

Dissatisfied

%

Disagree/

Poor/

Dissatisfied

%

Strongly

Disagree/

Very Poor/

Very

Dissatisfied

%

Percent

Negative

Strongly

Agree/

Very

Good/

Very

Satisfied

N

Agree/

Good/

Satisfied

N

Neither

Agree nor

Disagree/

Fair/

Neither

Satisfied

nor

Dissatisfied

N

Disagree/

Poor/

Dissatisfied

N

Strongly

Disagree/

Very Poor/

Very

Dissatisfied

N

Item

Response

Total**

N

Do Not

Know/

No 

Basis

to 

Judge

N

1 *I am given a real opportunity to improve my 

skills in my organization.

Agree-disagree

82.5% 40.2% 42.3% 6.6% 7.1% 3.8% 10.9% 70 74 12 12 6 174 N/A

2 I feel encouraged to come up with new and 

better ways of doing things.

Agree-disagree

74.1% 40.9% 33.2% 8.7% 8.9% 8.3% 17.2% 72 57 15 15 14 173 N/A

3 My work gives me a feeling of personal 

accomplishment.

Agree-disagree

71.7% 37.7% 34.0% 11.9% 8.6% 7.8% 16.4% 66 61 21 14 13 175 N/A

4 I know what is expected of me on the job. Agree-disagree

82.1% 44.8% 37.3% 9.5% 2.4% 6.1% 8.4% 80 66 14 4 10 174 N/A

5 *My workload is reasonable. Agree-disagree

76.3% 29.6% 46.7% 11.4% 7.5% 4.9% 12.3% 51 80 19 13 8 171 2

6 *My talents are used well in the workplace. Agree-disagree

71.1% 29.7% 41.4% 9.1% 11.6% 8.2% 19.8% 50 71 15 20 14 170 3

7 *I know how my work relates to the agency's 

goals.

Agree-disagree

87.3% 46.8% 40.5% 5.7% 4.4% 2.5% 7.0% 80 70 9 7 4 170 3

8 *I can disclose a suspected violation of any 

law, rule or regulation without fear of 

reprisal.

Agree-disagree

70.8% 32.7% 38.1% 17.2% 6.1% 5.8% 12.0% 54 61 27 10 9 161 11

9 *The people I work with cooperate to get the 

job done.

Agree-disagree

89.8% 52.5% 37.3% 4.8% 3.8% 1.7% 5.4% 93 65 8 6 3 175 N/A

10 In my work unit, steps are taken to deal with 

a poor performer who cannot or will not 

improve.

Agree-disagree

49.6% 24.5% 25.1% 31.7% 7.7% 11.1% 18.7% 34 34 44 11 15 138 37

12 *In my work unit, differences in performance 

are recognized in a meaningful way.

Agree-disagree

67.8% 30.8% 37.0% 17.1% 10.1% 5.0% 15.1% 50 57 28 14 8 157 18

13 *My work unit has the job-relevant 

knowledge and skills necessary to 

accomplish organizational goals.

Agree-disagree

88.8% 49.9% 38.9% 5.8% 3.5% 1.9% 5.4% 88 67 9 6 3 173 1

14 Employees in my work unit meet the needs 

of our customers.

Always-never

92.2% 55.3% 36.8% 6.7% 0.5% 0.6% 1.1% 96 62 11 1 1 171 4

15 Employees in my work unit contribute 

positively to my agency's performance.

Always-never

92.8% 67.6% 25.1% 6.1% 0.5% 0.6% 1.1% 116 43 10 1 1 171 4

16 Employees in my work unit produce highquality work.Always-never

91.1% 63.5% 27.6% 7.1% 0.7% 1.1% 1.8% 109 47 11 1 2 170 4
3 | Page

Core Survey Questions

Q1-10, 12 - 44

Item Item Text: 

Response

Type

Percent

Positive

Strongly

Agree/ 

Very

Good/ 

Very

Satisfied

%

Agree/

Good/

Satisfied

%

Neither

Agree nor

Disagree/

Fair/ 

Neither

Satisfied 

nor

Dissatisfied

%

Disagree/

Poor/

Dissatisfied

%

Strongly

Disagree/

Very Poor/

Very

Dissatisfied

%

Percent

Negative

Strongly

Agree/

Very

Good/

Very

Satisfied

N

Agree/

Good/

Satisfied

N

Neither

Agree nor

Disagree/

Fair/

Neither

Satisfied

nor

Dissatisfied

N

Disagree/

Poor/

Dissatisfied

N

Strongly

Disagree/

Very Poor/

Very

Dissatisfied

N

Item

Response

Total**

N

Do Not

Know/

No 

Basis

to 

Judge

N

17 Employees in my work unit adapt to changing 

priorities.

Always-never

85.6% 54.1% 31.5% 11.5% 1.7% 1.1% 2.8% 93 54 18 3 2 170 5

18 Employees in my work unit successfully 

collaborate.

Always-never

85.6% 60.6% 25.0% 10.9% 1.9% 1.6% 3.5% 104 44 18 3 3 172 2

19 Employees in my work unit achieve our 

goals.

Always-never

91.5% 62.5% 29.0% 7.4% 0.0% 1.1% 1.1% 107 49 12 0 2 170 4

20 Employees are recognized for providing high 

quality products and services.

Agree-disagree

72.2% 36.7% 35.5% 12.6% 7.6% 7.6% 15.2% 61 62 21 13 13 170 5

21 Employees are protected from health and 

safety hazards on the job.

Agree-disagree

66.1% 43.5% 22.6% 12.1% 7.0% 14.7% 21.8% 74 39 20 12 25 170 5

22 My agency is successful at accomplishing its 

mission.

Agree-disagree

84.0% 48.2% 35.8% 9.4% 3.5% 3.0% 6.5% 85 61 16 6 5 173 2

23 *I recommend my organization as a good 

place to work.

Agree-disagree

65.1% 31.7% 33.5% 14.9% 8.0% 12.0% 20.0% 55 59 24 16 20 174 N/A

24 *I believe the results of this survey will be 

used to make my agency a better place to 

Agree-disagree

50.7% 24.6% 26.1% 20.1% 15.0% 14.2% 29.2% 41 42 33 24 22 162 12

25 My supervisor supports my need to balance 

work and other life issues.

Agree-disagree

96.0% 72.8% 23.2% 0.8% 0.8% 2.3% 3.1% 127 40 2 1 4 174 0

26 My supervisor is committed to a workforce 

representative of all segments of society.

Agree-disagree

88.8% 64.8% 24.0% 7.1% 2.4% 1.8% 4.1% 109 40 11 4 3 167 6

27 Supervisors in my work unit support 

employee development.

Agree-disagree

91.8% 68.5% 23.3% 4.5% 0.8% 2.9% 3.8% 118 40 9 1 5 173 1

28 My supervisor listens to what I have to say. Agree-disagree

92.9% 69.3% 23.6% 4.3% 1.1% 1.7% 2.8% 119 40 8 2 3 172 N/A

29 My supervisor treats me with respect. Agree-disagree

94.8% 72.2% 22.6% 3.1% 0.4% 1.7% 2.1% 124 39 5 1 3 172 N/A

30 I have trust and confidence in my supervisor. Agree-disagree

87.9% 63.4% 24.5% 6.7% 3.3% 2.1% 5.4% 110 41 11 6 4 172 N/A

31 Overall, how good a job do you feel is being 

done by your immediate supervisor?

Good-poor

89.6% 60.8% 28.7% 7.9% 0.8% 1.7% 2.5% 108 48 14 1 3 174 N/A

32 In my organization, senior leaders generate 

high levels of motivation and commitment in 

h kf

Agree-disagree

46.8% 18.0% 28.8% 20.5% 14.0% 18.7% 32.7% 31 48 35 25 31 170 3
4 | Page

Core Survey Questions

Q1-10, 12 - 44

Item Item Text: 

Response

Type

Percent

Positive

Strongly

Agree/ 

Very

Good/ 

Very

Satisfied

%

Agree/

Good/

Satisfied

%

Neither

Agree nor

Disagree/

Fair/ 

Neither

Satisfied 

nor

Dissatisfied

%

Disagree/

Poor/

Dissatisfied

%

Strongly

Disagree/

Very Poor/

Very

Dissatisfied

%

Percent

Negative

Strongly

Agree/

Very

Good/

Very

Satisfied

N

Agree/

Good/

Satisfied

N

Neither

Agree nor

Disagree/

Fair/

Neither

Satisfied

nor

Dissatisfied

N

Disagree/

Poor/

Dissatisfied

N

Strongly

Disagree/

Very Poor/

Very

Dissatisfied

N

Item

Response

Total**

N

Do Not

Know/

No 

Basis

to 

Judge

N

33 My organization's senior leaders maintain 

high standards of honesty and integrity.

Agree-disagree

53.6% 28.1% 25.5% 15.7% 12.6% 18.1% 30.7% 45 42 27 20 30 164 8

34 *Managers communicate the goals of the 

organization.

Agree-disagree

76.4% 32.3% 44.1% 11.1% 4.1% 8.4% 12.6% 55 77 18 7 15 172 1

35 Managers promote communication among 

different work units (for example, about 

 

Agree-disagree

70.4% 27.8% 42.6% 13.7% 7.0% 8.9% 15.9% 47 74 23 12 15 171 2

36 Overall, how good a job do you feel is being 

done by the manager directly above your 

Good-poor

74.5% 40.2% 34.3% 12.1% 8.4% 5.1% 13.4% 68 57 19 14 9 167 6

37 I have a high level of respect for my 

organization's senior leaders.

Agree-disagree

57.5% 27.3% 30.2% 17.2% 7.2% 18.2% 25.3% 45 52 29 14 31 171 2

38 Senior leaders demonstrate support for WorkLife programs.Agree-disagree

53.5% 22.9% 30.6% 17.8% 13.8% 14.8% 28.6% 38 52 30 22 27 169 3

39 *How satisfied are you with your 

involvement in decisions that affect your 

Satisfieddissatisfied 61.3% 27.2% 34.0% 16.1% 13.0% 9.6% 22.6% 47 59 27 22 17 172 N/A

40 *How satisfied are you with the information 

you receive from management on what's 

 

Satisfieddissatisfied 62.8% 26.1% 36.7% 18.2% 7.3% 11.8% 19.1% 45 63 30 13 20 171 N/A

41 *How satisfied are you with the recognition 

you receive for doing a good job?

Satisfieddissatisfied 68.9% 33.3% 35.6% 15.9% 8.5% 6.7% 15.2% 57 62 26 15 12 172 N/A

42 *Considering everything, how satisfied are 

you with your job?

Satisfieddissatisfied 70.3% 30.4% 40.0% 13.6% 10.0% 6.1% 16.1% 51 68 24 17 11 171 N/A

43 Considering everything, how satisfied are 

you with your pay?

Satisfieddissatisfied 70.4% 30.9% 39.5% 11.7% 9.4% 8.4% 17.9% 52 70 20 16 14 172 N/A

44 *Considering everything, how satisfied are 

you with your organization?

Satisfieddissatisfied 64.4% 27.4% 37.1% 13.0% 9.3% 13.3% 22.6% 46 64 22 18 22 172 N/A

* AES prescribed items as of 2017 (5 CFR Part 250, Subpart C)

** Unweighted count of responses excluding "Do Not Know" or "No Basis to Judge"

Percentages are weighted to represent the Agency's population.

Source: Federal Retirement Thrift Investment Board AES Report, 2021 OPM Federal Employee Viewpoint Survey
2 | Page

Core Survey Questions

Q1 - 10, 12 - 44 Trends

Item Year Item Text

Percent

Positive

Percent

Neutral

Percent

Negative

Item

Response

Total**

N

Do Not

Know/

No Basis 

to Judge

N

1 2021 *I am given a real opportunity to improve my skills in 

my organization. 82.5% 6.6% 10.9% 174 N/A

1 2020 *I am given a real opportunity to improve my skills in 

my organization. 75.7% 11.2% 13.1% 183 N/A

1 2019 *I am given a real opportunity to improve my skills in 

my organization. 73.7% 15.2% 11.1% 190 N/A

1 2018 *I am given a real opportunity to improve my skills in 

my organization. 71.6% 11.6% 16.8% 214 N/A

2 2021 I feel encouraged to come up with new and better ways 

of doing things. 74.1% 8.7% 17.2% 173 N/A

2 2020 I feel encouraged to come up with new and better ways 

of doing things. 71.4% 11.5% 17.1% 183 N/A

2 2019 I feel encouraged to come up with new and better ways 

of doing things. 66.0% 12.1% 21.9% 188 N/A

2 2018 I feel encouraged to come up with new and better ways 

of doing things. 65.2% 11.5% 23.3% 214 N/A

3 2021 My work gives me a feeling of personal 

accomplishment. 71.7% 11.9% 16.4% 175 N/A

3 2020 My work gives me a feeling of personal 

accomplishment. 76.6% 7.8% 15.6% 181 N/A

3 2019 My work gives me a feeling of personal 

accomplishment. 74.1% 13.1% 12.7% 190 N/A

3 2018 My work gives me a feeling of personal 

accomplishment. 68.1% 14.1% 17.8% 215 N/A

4 2021 I know what is expected of me on the job. 82.1% 9.5% 8.4% 174 N/A

4 2020 I know what is expected of me on the job. 83.2% 7.5% 9.3% 183 N/A

4 2019 I know what is expected of me on the job. 79.2% 5.9% 15.0% 187 N/A

4 2018 I know what is expected of me on the job. 75.7% 9.9% 14.4% 215 N/A

5 2021 *My workload is reasonable. 76.3% 11.4% 12.3% 171 2

5 2020 *My workload is reasonable. 69.4% 10.2% 20.3% 183 0

5 2019 *My workload is reasonable. 61.9% 10.8% 27.3% 190 0

5 2018 *My workload is reasonable. 63.2% 12.6% 24.2% 214 0

6 2021 *My talents are used well in the workplace. 71.1% 9.1% 19.8% 170 3

6 2020 *My talents are used well in the workplace. 67.1% 12.1% 20.8% 181 1

6 2019 *My talents are used well in the workplace. 60.1% 14.9% 25.1% 187 3

6 2018 *My talents are used well in the workplace. 56.1% 13.8% 30.0% 209 3

7 2021 *I know how my work relates to the agency's goals. 87.3% 5.7% 7.0% 170 3

7 2020 *I know how my work relates to the agency's goals. 89.6% 6.7% 3.7% 182 0

7 2019 *I know how my work relates to the agency's goals. 86.7% 6.1% 7.2% 188 1

7 2018 *I know how my work relates to the agency's goals. 84.4% 6.8% 8.8% 214 0

8 2021 *I can disclose a suspected violation of any law, rule or 

regulation without fear of reprisal. 70.8% 17.2% 12.0% 161 11

8 2020 *I can disclose a suspected violation of any law, rule or 

regulation without fear of reprisal. 65.7% 17.9% 16.5% 178 5

8 2019 *I can disclose a suspected violation of any law, rule or 

regulation without fear of reprisal. 66.0% 13.5% 20.5% 175 15

8 2018 *I can disclose a suspected violation of any law, rule or 

regulation without fear of reprisal. 59.2% 16.5% 24.3% 200 15
3 | Page

Item Year Item Text

Percent

Positive

Percent

Neutral

Percent

Negative

Item

Response

Total**

N

Do Not

Know/

No Basis 

to Judge

N

9 2021 *The people I work with cooperate to get the job done. 89.8% 4.8% 5.4% 175 N/A

9 2020 *The people I work with cooperate to get the job done. 85.6% 7.3% 7.1% 182 N/A

9 2019 *The people I work with cooperate to get the job done. 76.0% 13.2% 10.9% 190 N/A

9 2018 *The people I work with cooperate to get the job done. 74.4% 12.3% 13.3% 215 N/A

10 2021 In my work unit, steps are taken to deal with a poor 

performer who cannot or will not improve. 49.6% 31.7% 18.7% 138 37

10 2020 In my work unit, steps are taken to deal with a poor 

performer who cannot or will not improve. 53.4% 22.6% 24.1% 148 35

10 2019 In my work unit, steps are taken to deal with a poor 

performer who cannot or will not improve. 37.2% 29.1% 33.7% 167 22

10 2018 In my work unit, steps are taken to deal with a poor 

performer who cannot or will not improve. 37.5% 26.3% 36.3% 185 30

12 2021 *In my work unit, differences in performance are 

recognized in a meaningful way. 67.8% 17.1% 15.1% 157 18

12 2020 *In my work unit, differences in performance are 

recognized in a meaningful way. 56.7% 26.5% 16.8% 164 18

12 2019 *In my work unit, differences in performance are 

recognized in a meaningful way. 38.0% 32.6% 29.4% 174 13

12 2018 *In my work unit, differences in performance are 

recognized in a meaningful way. 41.2% 32.2% 26.6% 191 23

13 2021 *My work unit has the job-relevant knowledge and skills 

necessary to accomplish organizational goals. 88.8% 5.8% 5.4% 173 1

13 2020 *My work unit has the job-relevant knowledge and skills 

necessary to accomplish organizational goals. 85.1% 8.5% 6.5% 182 1

13 2019 *My work unit has the job-relevant knowledge and skills 

necessary to accomplish organizational goals. 82.5% 9.2% 8.3% 187 1

13 2018 *My work unit has the job-relevant knowledge and skills 

necessary to accomplish organizational goals. 82.8% 6.8% 10.5% 213 2

14 2021 Employees in my work unit meet the needs of our 

customers. 92.2% 6.7% 1.1% 171 4

14 2020 During the COVID-19 pandemic, my work unit has met 

the needs of our customers. 99.3% 0.7% 0.0% 179 0

15 2021 Employees in my work unit contribute positively to my 

agency's performance. 92.8% 6.1% 1.1% 171 4

15 2020 During the COVID-19 pandemic, my work unit has 

contributed positively to my agency's performance. 100.0% 0.0% 0.0% 177 1

16 2021 Employees in my work unit produce high-quality work. 91.1% 7.1% 1.8% 170 4

16 2020 During the COVID-19 pandemic, my work unit has 

produced high-quality work. 96.8% 3.2% 0.0% 179 0

17 2021 Employees in my work unit adapt to changing priorities. 85.6% 11.5% 2.8% 170 5

17 2020 During the COVID-19 pandemic, my work unit has 

adapted to changing priorities. 97.0% 2.3% 0.7% 179 0

18 2021 Employees in my work unit successfully collaborate. 85.6% 10.9% 3.5% 172 2

18 2020 During the COVID-19 pandemic, my work unit has 

successfully collaborated. 95.0% 3.2% 1.8% 178 0

19 2021 Employees in my work unit achieve our goals. 91.5% 7.4% 1.1% 170 4

19 2020 During the COVID-19 pandemic, my work unit has 

achieved our goals. 98.7% 0.8% 0.5% 178 1

20 2021 Employees are recognized for providing high quality 

products and services. 72.2% 12.6% 15.2% 170 5

20 2020 Employees are recognized for providing high quality 

products and services. 72.5% 12.3% 15.3% 177 4
4 | Page

Item Year Item Text

Percent

Positive

Percent

Neutral

Percent

Negative

Item

Response

Total**

N

Do Not

Know/

No Basis 

to Judge

N

20 2019 Employees are recognized for providing high quality 

products and services. 56.9% 21.2% 21.9% 183 3

20 2018 Employees are recognized for providing high quality 

products and services. 53.7% 21.8% 24.6% 210 5

21 2021 Employees are protected from health and safety 

hazards on the job. 66.1% 12.1% 21.8% 170 5

21 2020 Employees are protected from health and safety 

hazards on the job. 92.1% 5.5% 2.4% 178 3

21 2019 Employees are protected from health and safety 

hazards on the job. 86.8% 11.5% 1.7% 184 2

21 2018 Employees are protected from health and safety 

hazards on the job. 88.0% 7.3% 4.7% 212 3

22 2021 My agency is successful at accomplishing its mission. 84.0% 9.4% 6.5% 173 2

22 2020 My agency is successful at accomplishing its mission. 88.4% 8.0% 3.6% 182 0

22 2019 My agency is successful at accomplishing its mission. 78.0% 14.1% 7.9% 183 3

22 2018 My agency is successful at accomplishing its mission. 71.4% 15.8% 12.9% 213 1

23 2021 *I recommend my organization as a good place to work. 65.1% 14.9% 20.0% 174 N/A

23 2020 *I recommend my organization as a good place to work. 70.1% 16.8% 13.1% 183 N/A

23 2019 *I recommend my organization as a good place to work. 64.9% 18.0% 17.1% 185 N/A

23 2018 *I recommend my organization as a good place to work. 61.3% 16.6% 22.1% 214 N/A

24 2021 *I believe the results of this survey will be used to make 

my agency a better place to work. 50.7% 20.1% 29.2% 162 12

24 2020 *I believe the results of this survey will be used to make 

my agency a better place to work. 53.2% 24.7% 22.2% 176 7

24 2019 *I believe the results of this survey will be used to make 

my agency a better place to work. 50.5% 18.7% 30.8% 177 8

24 2018 *I believe the results of this survey will be used to make 

my agency a better place to work. 50.3% 20.2% 29.5% 207 8

25 2021 My supervisor supports my need to balance work and 

other life issues. 96.0% 0.8% 3.1% 174 0

25 2020 My supervisor supports my need to balance work and 

other life issues. 90.2% 5.2% 4.6% 182 1

25 2019 My supervisor supports my need to balance work and 

other life issues. 86.2% 7.5% 6.3% 185 0

25 2018 My supervisor supports my need to balance work and 

other life issues. 90.7% 2.7% 6.5% 214 0

26 2021 My supervisor is committed to a workforce 

representative of all segments of society. 88.8% 7.1% 4.1% 167 6

26 2020 My supervisor is committed to a workforce 

representative of all segments of society. 86.8% 8.1% 5.1% 180 3

26 2019 My supervisor is committed to a workforce 

representative of all segments of society. 81.0% 12.6% 6.4% 170 14

26 2018 My supervisor is committed to a workforce 

representative of all segments of society. 76.5% 15.6% 7.9% 206 7

27 2021 Supervisors in my work unit support employee 

development. 91.8% 4.5% 3.8% 173 1

27 2020 Supervisors in my work unit support employee 

development. 88.3% 4.6% 7.0% 183 0

27 2019 Supervisors in my work unit support employee 

development. 79.7% 9.7% 10.6% 183 2

27 2018 Supervisors in my work unit support employee 

development. 77.8% 11.2% 11.0% 214 0

28 2021 My supervisor listens to what I have to say. 92.9% 4.3% 2.8% 172 N/A
5 | Page

Item Year Item Text

Percent

Positive

Percent

Neutral

Percent

Negative

Item

Response

Total**

N

Do Not

Know/

No Basis 

to Judge

N

28 2020 My supervisor listens to what I have to say. 87.1% 6.8% 6.1% 182 N/A

28 2019 My supervisor listens to what I have to say. 81.4% 11.9% 6.8% 184 N/A

28 2018 My supervisor listens to what I have to say. 84.8% 6.2% 9.1% 214 N/A

29 2021 My supervisor treats me with respect. 94.8% 3.1% 2.1% 172 N/A

29 2020 My supervisor treats me with respect. 87.9% 4.7% 7.4% 182 N/A

29 2019 My supervisor treats me with respect. 86.3% 8.2% 5.5% 184 N/A

29 2018 My supervisor treats me with respect. 86.4% 5.9% 7.7% 213 N/A

30 2021 I have trust and confidence in my supervisor. 87.9% 6.7% 5.4% 172 N/A

30 2020 I have trust and confidence in my supervisor. 78.8% 8.8% 12.4% 182 N/A

30 2019 I have trust and confidence in my supervisor. 73.3% 15.3% 11.4% 184 N/A

30 2018 I have trust and confidence in my supervisor. 76.2% 9.6% 14.2% 214 N/A

31 2021 Overall, how good a job do you feel is being done by 

your immediate supervisor? 89.6% 7.9% 2.5% 174 N/A

31 2020 Overall, how good a job do you feel is being done by 

your immediate supervisor? 82.0% 10.3% 7.6% 183 N/A

31 2019 Overall, how good a job do you feel is being done by 

your immediate supervisor? 75.4% 14.8% 9.8% 185 N/A

31 2018 Overall, how good a job do you feel is being done by 

your immediate supervisor? 76.4% 12.5% 11.0% 214 N/A

32 2021 In my organization, senior leaders generate high levels 

of motivation and commitment in the workforce. 46.8% 20.5% 32.7% 170 3

32 2020 In my organization, senior leaders generate high levels 

of motivation and commitment in the workforce. 54.1% 19.8% 26.1% 183 0

32 2019 In my organization, senior leaders generate high levels 

of motivation and commitment in the workforce. 40.0% 24.6% 35.4% 182 2

32 2018 In my organization, senior leaders generate high levels 

of motivation and commitment in the workforce. 41.0% 23.0% 36.0% 211 2

33 2021 My organization's senior leaders maintain high 

standards of honesty and integrity. 53.6% 15.7% 30.7% 164 8

33 2020 My organization's senior leaders maintain high 

standards of honesty and integrity. 61.5% 20.1% 18.4% 179 3

33 2019 My organization's senior leaders maintain high 

standards of honesty and integrity. 49.3% 26.2% 24.6% 176 8

33 2018 My organization's senior leaders maintain high 

standards of honesty and integrity. 48.1% 21.3% 30.6% 206 7

34 2021 *Managers communicate the goals of the organization. 76.4% 11.1% 12.6% 172 1

34 2020 *Managers communicate the goals of the organization. 83.4% 7.6% 9.1% 182 1

34 2019 *Managers communicate the goals of the organization. 72.6% 15.1% 12.3% 184 0

34 2018 *Managers communicate the goals of the organization. 62.1% 18.6% 19.3% 208 5

35 2021 Managers promote communication among different 

work units (for example, about projects, goals, needed 

resources). 70.4% 13.7% 15.9% 171 2

35 2020 Managers promote communication among different 

work units (for example, about projects, goals, needed 

resources). 73.3% 13.2% 13.5% 180 3

35 2019 Managers promote communication among different 

work units (for example, about projects, goals, needed 

resources). 63.1% 19.9% 17.0% 182 2
6 | Page

Item Year Item Text

Percent

Positive

Percent

Neutral

Percent

Negative

Item

Response

Total**

N

Do Not

Know/

No Basis 

to Judge

N

35 2018 Managers promote communication among different 

work units (for example, about projects, goals, needed 

resources). 55.2% 18.9% 25.9% 207 5

36 2021 Overall, how good a job do you feel is being done by the 

manager directly above your immediate supervisor? 74.5% 12.1% 13.4% 167 6

36 2020 Overall, how good a job do you feel is being done by the 

manager directly above your immediate supervisor? 78.2% 12.4% 9.4% 179 3

36 2019 Overall, how good a job do you feel is being done by the 

manager directly above your immediate supervisor? 67.2% 21.2% 11.5% 181 2

36 2018 Overall, how good a job do you feel is being done by the 

manager directly above your immediate supervisor? 60.1% 19.0% 20.9% 207 6

37 2021 I have a high level of respect for my organization's 

senior leaders. 57.5% 17.2% 25.3% 171 2

37 2020 I have a high level of respect for my organization's 

senior leaders. 61.2% 22.9% 15.8% 183 0

37 2019 I have a high level of respect for my organization's 

senior leaders. 54.8% 19.9% 25.2% 181 2

37 2018 I have a high level of respect for my organization's 

senior leaders. 51.2% 20.0% 28.9% 212 1

38 2021 Senior leaders demonstrate support for Work-Life 

programs. 53.5% 17.8% 28.6% 169 3

38 2020 Senior leaders demonstrate support for Work-Life 

programs. 79.0% 12.2% 8.7% 178 5

38 2019 Senior leaders demonstrate support for Work-Life 

programs. 70.3% 17.2% 12.5% 175 8

38 2018 Senior leaders demonstrate support for Work-Life 

programs. 69.1% 19.5% 11.4% 209 4

39 2021 *How satisfied are you with your involvement in 

decisions that affect your work? 61.3% 16.1% 22.6% 172 N/A

39 2020 *How satisfied are you with your involvement in 

decisions that affect your work? 66.5% 15.1% 18.4% 182 N/A

39 2019 *How satisfied are you with your involvement in 

decisions that affect your work? 60.9% 22.8% 16.3% 182 N/A

39 2018 *How satisfied are you with your involvement in 

decisions that affect your work? 54.9% 15.5% 29.6% 211 N/A

40 2021 *How satisfied are you with the information you receive 

from management on what's going on in your 

organization? 62.8% 18.2% 19.1% 171 N/A

40 2020 *How satisfied are you with the information you receive 

from management on what's going on in your 

organization? 69.2% 14.3% 16.5% 178 N/A

40 2019 *How satisfied are you with the information you receive 

from management on what's going on in your 

organization? 67.1% 19.0% 13.9% 180 N/A

40 2018 *How satisfied are you with the information you receive 

from management on what's going on in your 

organization? 56.6% 21.9% 21.5% 213 N/A

41 2021 *How satisfied are you with the recognition you receive 

for doing a good job? 68.9% 15.9% 15.2% 172 N/A

41 2020 *How satisfied are you with the recognition you receive 

for doing a good job? 64.8% 17.1% 18.1% 182 N/A

41 2019 *How satisfied are you with the recognition you receive 

for doing a good job? 54.4% 21.1% 24.5% 181 N/A

41 2018 *How satisfied are you with the recognition you receive 

for doing a good job? 54.8% 21.3% 23.9% 213 N/A

42 2021 *Considering everything, how satisfied are you with 

your job? 70.3% 13.6% 16.1% 171 N/A
7 | Page

Item Year Item Text

Percent

Positive

Percent

Neutral

Percent

Negative

Item

Response

Total**

N

Do Not

Know/

No Basis 

to Judge

N

42 2020 *Considering everything, how satisfied are you with 

your job? 75.1% 10.5% 14.3% 181 N/A

42 2019 *Considering everything, how satisfied are you with 

your job? 68.3% 15.4% 16.3% 180 N/A

42 2018 *Considering everything, how satisfied are you with 

your job? 64.1% 17.9% 18.0% 213 N/A

43 2021 Considering everything, how satisfied are you with your 

pay? 70.4% 11.7% 17.9% 172 N/A

43 2020 Considering everything, how satisfied are you with your 

pay? 70.7% 14.3% 15.0% 183 N/A

43 2019 Considering everything, how satisfied are you with your 

pay? 68.0% 14.9% 17.2% 181 N/A

43 2018 Considering everything, how satisfied are you with your 

pay? 65.9% 18.5% 15.6% 213 N/A

44 2021 *Considering everything, how satisfied are you with 

your organization? 64.4% 13.0% 22.6% 172 N/A

44 2020 *Considering everything, how satisfied are you with 

your organization? 73.2% 12.2% 14.6% 183 N/A

44 2019 *Considering everything, how satisfied are you with 

your organization? 63.7% 17.6% 18.7% 180 N/A

44 2018 *Considering everything, how satisfied are you with 

your organization? 62.2% 15.5% 22.3% 213 N/A

AES prescribed items as of 2017 (5 CFR Part 250, Subpart C)

** Unweighted count of responses excluding "Do Not Know" or "No Basis to Judge"

Percentages are weighted to represent the Agency's population.

Trending for Q14-Q19 is based on the "During the COVID-19 Pandemic" responses in 2020.

Q14-Q19 were not included in the 2015-2019 OPM FEVS and therefore not shown for those years.

The rows above do not include results for any year when there were fewer than 4 completed surveys.

"—a" indicates that there are no trending results available for the year.

Source: Federal Retirement Thrift Investment Board AES Report, 2021 OPM Federal Employee Viewpoint Survey
8 | Page

Agency Response: Poor Performers

11. In my work unit poor performers usually:

Response Option

2021

N

2021

%

2020

N

2020

%

2019

N

2019

%

Remain in the work unit and improve their performance over 

time 24 19.5% 28 18.7% 13 9.4%

Remain in the work unit and continue to underperform 47 36.1% 53 37.4% 84 58.2%

Leave the work unit - removed or transferred 4 3.3% 14 8.4% 17 11.1%

Leave the work unit - quit 3 2.5% 5 3.8% 2 1.6%

There are no poor performers in my work unit 51 38.6% 44 31.7% 28 19.7%

Do Not Know 46 —b 39 —b 36 —b

Total 175 100.0% 183 100.0% 180 100.0%

Percentages are weighted to represent the Agency's population.

The rows above do not include results for any year when there were fewer than 4 completed 

surveys.

"—a" indicates that there are no trending results available for the year.

"—b" indicates that the "Do Not Know" responses are not included in percentage calculations.

 Source: Federal Retirement Thrift Investment Board AES Report, 2021 OPM Federal Employee Viewpoint Survey
9 | Page

Agency Pandemic Response: Physically Present

45. Since the last OPM FEVS (September and October 2020), on average what percentage of your work time have you been physically 

present at your agency worksite (including headquarters, bureau, field offices, etc.)?

Response Option

2021

N

2021

%

2020

N

2020

%

100% of my work time 5 3.0% 10 5.5%

At least 75% but less than 100% 4 2.6% 1 0.6%

At least 50% but less than 75% 3 1.6% 1 0.6%

At least 25% but less than 50% 0 0.0% 3 1.5%

Less than 25% 56 32.3% 18 9.0%

I have not been physically present at my agency worksite during the pandemic 102 60.5% 148 82.8%

Total 170 100.0% 181 100.0%

Percentages are weighted to represent the Agency's population.

The rows above do not include results for any year when there were fewer than 4 completed surveys.

"—a" indicates that there are no trending results available for the year. 

Source: Federal Retirement Thrift Investment Board AES Report, 2021 OPM Federal Employee Viewpoint Survey
10 | Page

Telework Trends

46. Please select the response that BEST describes your current teleworking schedule.

Response Option

2021

N

2021

%

2020

N

2020

%

2019

N

2019

%

I telework every work day 84 49.3% 172 94.3% 2 1.0%

I telework 3 or 4 days per week 7 3.4% 5 2.7% 1 0.7%

I telework 1 or 2 days per week 72 42.7% 4 2.3% 141 78.8%

I telework, but only about 1 or 2 days per month 3 1.7% 0 0.0% 10 5.3%

I telework very infrequently, on an unscheduled or short-term basis 1 0.7% 0 0.0% 17 9.4%

I do not telework because I have to be physically present on the job (e.g., law enforcement 

officers, TSA agent, border patrol agent, security personnel) 2 1.1% 0 0.0% 2 1.2% 

I do not telework because of technical issues (e.g., connectivity, inadequate equipment) 

that prevent me from teleworking 0 0.0% 0 0.0% 0 0.0% 

I do not telework because I did not receive approval to do so, even though I have the kind 

of job where I can telework 1 0.4% 0 0.0% 1 0.4% 

I do not telework because I choose not to telework 1 0.6% 1 0.7% 6 3.2% 

Total 171 100.0% 182 100.0% 180 100.0%

Percentages are weighted to represent the Agency's population.

Trending for Q46 is based on the "As of now" responses in 2020.

The rows above do not include results for any year when there were fewer than 4 completed surveys.

"—a" indicates that there are no trending results available for the year. 

 Source: Federal Retirement Thrift Investment Board AES Report, 2021 OPM Federal Employee Viewpoint Survey
5 | Page

Pandemic: Employee Supports

Response Option

2021

Needed and 

 available to me

N

2021

Needed and 

 available to me

%

2021

Needed, but

not available to

 me

N

2021

Needed, but

not available to

 me

%

2021

Not needed by 

me now

N

2021

Not needed by 

me now

%

2020

Needed and 

 available to me

N

2020

Needed and 

 available to me

%

2020

Needed, but

not available to

 me

N

2020

Needed, but

not available to

 me

%

2020

Not needed by 

me now

N

2020

Not needed by 

me now

%

47A. Expanded telework 115 69.6% 47 26.0% 9 4.5% 159 88.5% 1 0.6% 19 11.0%

47B. Expanded work schedule flexibilities 120 72.8% 24 13.8% 25 13.4% 112 62.2% 6 3.5% 62 34.3%

47C. Expanded leave policies 90 55.6% 24 14.1% 53 30.3% 63 35.3% 12 7.1% 103 57.7%

47D. Clear guidance on COVID-19 vaccination protocols 135 80.4% 18 11.0% 15 8.6% —a —a —a —a —a —a

47E. Appropriate physical health resources (e.g., access to COVID-19 

testing) at my agency worksite 50 30.7% 32 19.6% 87 49.7% —a —a —a —a —a —a

47F. Timely communication about possible COVID-19 exposure at my 

agency worksite 104 63.0% 21 12.9% 42 24.0% 117 65.4% 13 7.6% 49 27.0%

47G. Social distancing in my agency worksite 101 59.5% 21 12.2% 48 28.3% 52 28.6% 4 2.3% 124 69.1%

47H. Encouraged use of personal protective equipment (PPE) or other 

safety equipment in my agency worksite 105 62.1% 16 9.5% 48 28.4% 52 28.8% 5 2.9% 122 68.3%

47I. Cleaning and sanitizing performed regularly in my agency 

worksite to reduce risk of COVID-19 illness 115 67.2% 14 8.9% 40 23.9% —a —a —a —a —a —a

47J. A well-ventilated worksite 102 59.5% 32 19.3% 35 21.1% —a —a —a —a —a —a

47K. Clear guidance on quarantine requirements after any COVID-19 

exposure 106 64.4% 23 13.8% 37 21.8% —a —a —a —a —a —a

Source: Federal Retirement Thrift Investment Board AES Report, 2021 OPM Federal Employee 

Viewpoint Survey

47. How has your organization supported you during the COVID-19 pandemic?

For each support listed, choose the best response from one of the 3 columns: (1) those supports you needed and have been available to you, (2) those needed but not available to you, and (3) those supports you have not currently needed. 

Percentages are weighted to represent the Agency's population.

The rows above do not include results for any year when there were fewer than 4 completed surveys.

"—a

" indicates that there are no trending results available for the year. 

Items Q47D-E and Q47I-K are new and do not trend. Item text for Q47F and Q47G has changed from the 2020 FEVS.
11 | Page

Pandemic Response: Senior Leaders and Supervisors

48. My organization's senior leaders demonstrate commitment to employee health and safety.

Response Option

2021

N

2021

%

2020

N

2020

%

Strongly Agree 62 37.3% 136 75.5%

Agree 41 24.2% 38 22.1%

Neither Agree nor Disagree 16 10.3% 4 2.4%

Disagree 16 9.3% 0 0.0%

Strongly Disagree 34 18.9% 0 0.0%

No Basis to Judge 2 —b 2 —b

Total 171 100.0% 180 100.0%

49. My organization's senior leaders support policies and procedures to protect employee health and safety.

Response Option

2021

N

2021

%

2020

N

2020

%

Strongly Agree 61 37.0% 136 75.9%

Agree 41 25.1% 38 22.2%

Neither Agree nor Disagree 16 9.7% 3 1.8%

Disagree 18 10.7% 0 0.0%

Strongly Disagree 32 17.5% 0 0.0%

No Basis to Judge 2 —b 3 —b

Total 170 100.0% 180 100.0%

50. My organization's senior leaders provide effective communications about what 

to expect with the return to the physical worksite.

Response Option

2021

N

2021

%

Strongly Agree 78 45.6%

Agree 53 31.2%

Neither Agree nor Disagree 18 10.4%

Disagree 5 3.3%

Strongly Disagree 17 9.5%

No Basis to Judge 0 —b

Total 171 100.0%
12 | Page

51. My supervisor shows concern for my health and safety.

Response Option

2021

N

2021

%

2020

N

2020

%

Strongly Agree 116 68.6% 122 67.8%

Agree 40 23.3% 39 23.3%

Neither Agree nor Disagree 8 4.8% 9 4.9%

Disagree 1 0.4% 3 2.0%

Strongly Disagree 5 2.9% 3 2.0%

No Basis to Judge 1 —b 4 —b

Total 171 100.0% 180 100.0%

52. My supervisor supports my efforts to stay healthy and safe while working.

Response Option

2021

N

2021

%

2020

N

2020

%

Strongly Agree 117 69.5% 127 70.5%

Agree 39 23.0% 36 21.3%

Neither Agree nor Disagree 7 4.2% 10 5.7%

Disagree 2 1.2% 2 1.3%

Strongly Disagree 4 2.1% 2 1.3%

No Basis to Judge 1 —b 2 —b

Total 170 100.0% 179 100.0%

53. My supervisor creates an environment where I can voice my concerns about staying healthy and safe.

Response Option

2021

N

2021

%

2020

N

2020

%

Strongly Agree 111 66.3% 123 68.6%

Agree 37 22.5% 35 20.2%

Neither Agree nor Disagree 10 6.2% 10 5.9%

Disagree 3 1.2% 5 3.2%

Strongly Disagree 6 3.7% 3 2.1%

No Basis to Judge 4 —b 4 —b

Total 171 100.0% 180 100.0%
13 | Page

Pandemic: Type of Work

54. Does the type of work you do require you to be physically present at a worksite (e.g., border patrol agent, TSA agent, meat inspector)?

Response Option

2021

N

2021

%

2020

N

2020

%

Yes 9 5.0% 2 1.2%

No 161 95.0% 171 98.2%

Other 0 0.0% 1 0.6%

Total 170 100.0% 174 100.0%

Percentages are weighted to represent the Agency's population.

The rows above do not include results for any year when there were fewer than 4 completed surveys.

"—a" indicates that there are no trending results available for the year. 

Source: Federal Retirement Thrift Investment Board AES Report, 2021 OPM Federal Employee Viewpoint Survey
14 | Page

Pandemic Response

Response Option

2021

N

2021

%

Strongly Agree 97 56.6%

Agree 63 36.7%

Neither Agree nor Disagree 5 2.9%

Disagree 2 1.1%

Strongly Disagree 4 2.7%

Do Not Know 0 —b

Total 171 100.0%

Response Option

2021

N

2021

%

Strongly Agree 48 28.4%

Agree 40 24.0%

Neither Agree nor Disagree 24 14.9%

Disagree 21 11.7%

Strongly Disagree 37 20.9%

Do Not Know 0 —b

Total 170 100.0%

Response Option

2021

N

2021

%

2020

N

2020

%

Strongly Agree 59 34.8% 112 62.0%

Agree 55 33.4% 58 33.3%

Neither Agree nor Disagree 23 13.2% 5 3.0%

Disagree 10 6.1% 2 1.1%

Strongly Disagree 23 12.6% 1 0.6%

Do Not Know 1 —b 1 —b

Total 171 100.0% 179 100.0%

"—b" indicates that the "Do Not Know" responses are not included in percentage calculations. 

The "Do Not Know" response option for Q57 was worded as "No Basis to Judge" in 2020.

Source: Federal Retirement Thrift Investment Board AES Report, 2021 OPM Federal Employee 

Viewpoint Survey

55. My agency's leadership updates employees about return to the worksite planning.

56. In plans to return more employees to the worksite, my organization has made employee safety a top 

priority.

57. Based on my organization's handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, I believe my organization will respond effectively to future 

emergencies.

Percentages are weighted to represent the Agency's population.

The rows above do not include results for any year when there were fewer than 4 completed surveys.

"—a" indicates that there are no trending results available for the year.