In our workshops, you may have heard us mention that NSPS is to you like the weather is to farmers. But, what can farmers do about the weather? Nothing, they just have to learn to work with the situation they are dealt. Well, this is exactly the situation that you are facing. NSPS is here and the best way to succeed is to learn to work with it, not against it.
The best way to begin under NSPS is to learn the system, it components, and especially to understand what the new rating scale now means. Under the NSPS rating system, a 3 is now considered a valued employee, which basically means you show up, do your job well, and it is commendable. Also, let me state upfront – there is nothing wrong with being a 3. But for many, being a 3 makes us feel as if our work is going unnoticed. Listen, going after a 4 or 5 rating is an awesome thing to do you should be and feel encouraged to do so; the “pursuit of excellence” is noble and great for the organization and you. Yet, as a 3, you should realize that you did what was required of you and did it well. So be proud of all your achievements be they rated at a 3, 4, or, 5.
So, what do you need to do if you are aspiring to a 4 or 5 rating? To attain a 4 or 5 rating, you now have to stretch beyond the limits of doing your job well. You must surpass the expectations set forth.