In a Q&A series for USA TODAY, Johnny C. Taylor Jr., President and CEO of the Society for Human Resource Management, addresses HR inquiries. He is also the author of “Reset: A Leader’s Guide to Work in an Age of Upheaval.”
Question: I work remotely for the federal government, but a recent executive order mandates all federal employees to return to their duty stations. My spouse is in the military and may be relocated from Texas to Georgia. My current job has allowed me to balance my career and family. If I switch to a government contractor role, could I still work remotely? What steps can I take to preserve my telework status? – Sierra
Answer: As a military spouse, you are familiar with change, but I understand the impact this situation may have on your career. The uncertainty arising from the broad changes affecting the federal workforce can be unsettling. It’s important to fully grasp the implications of these orders, seek guidance, and carefully evaluate your alternatives.
Transitioning to a government contractor position may pose risks to your remote work arrangement. While the executive order primarily targets federal employees, contractors could eventually be required to work in-office, with some exceptions.
Moreover, individual contractors may have distinct telework policies, so it is crucial to review these policies before making a move. Remember, these policies, similar to those of the federal government, are subject to change.
In accordance with recent guidance from the Office of Personnel Management, military spouses are typically exempt from the return-to-office directive under the Military Spouse Employment Act. This exemption could potentially allow you to maintain your remote status.
Discuss your situation with your management or HR team to confirm your eligibility for an exemption. If you qualify, you can continue with your current arrangement. If not, consider these steps:
– Look into alternative duty stations near your spouse’s base in Georgia and request a reassignment.
– Utilize military spouse support programs like the Military Spouse Preference program for employment opportunities with remote options.
– Stay proactive by updating your resume, expanding your network, and exploring career prospects in federal and contractor roles that align with your requirements.
Keep in mind that management and HR are navigating this policy shift too, so patience and understanding are key as they implement the new directives.
Updates to policies and decisions made by the agency may take time to fully unfold, so it’s important not to feel disheartened if immediate clarity is not provided. It is crucial to persevere in delivering exceptional work and advocating for yourself, as your wealth of experience and unwavering dedication truly make you a valuable asset in any position you undertake. Your commitment to public service, as well as the sacrifices made by your family for the betterment of our nation, are sincerely appreciated. I truly hope that you are able to continue your invaluable contributions to the well-being of our citizens.
Please note that the opinions and perspectives shared in this column are solely those of the author and may not necessarily align with the views of USA TODAY. For guidance on conducting layoffs without any form of discrimination, it is advisable to seek advice from the Human Resources department. This article, entitled “Do I have recourse to retain remote work status as a military spouse?” was originally published on USA TODAY.
