Transforming Public Service: 5 Tactics for Women Leaders in the Federal Government

Posted on by FEW Web Team

Women leaders in the federal government play a key role in improving public service and shaping public policy, yet they continue to earn less than men. Furthermore, women are drastically underrepresented in leadership positions across all industries, including the public sector.

Consistent with Partnership for Public Service data, women represented only 27.3% of the U.S. Congress in 2021. In 2022, 39% of Senior Executive Service members were female, while 61% were male.

Mackenzie Genecov, MA, a grant management specialist at the U.S. Economic Development Administration, and Andrelyn Moore, a diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility program specialist, explore the importance of women leaders in the federal government and the value of diversity and inclusion. They also discuss approaches women leaders in the federal government can use to impact change for better public service.

Significance of Women Leaders in the Federal Government

Moore starts by stating that female federal government leaders must drive change to promote equality. The common saying, “It’s a man’s world,” persists due to the insufficient representation of women in leadership roles. The Partnership for Public Service’sLeadHERship series concluded that the lack of representation of women in senior federal positions is less due to their leadership ability and more due to systemic and structural barriers that operate in the workplace.

Genecov adds that women in leadership roles help make federal policies more responsive to citizens’ diverse needs. Since the federal government often serves as a role model for corporations and other organizations, the impact extends beyond public service. Women in leadership roles have the visibility and influence to push for meaningful reforms that address critical issues.

These include family leave, healthcare, education and social justice—areas that traditionally did not receive the same attention from male counterparts. Additionally, Genecov claims that women bring a collaborative, empathetic and consensus-building approach to leadership, which is highly effective in government settings.

This approach:

  • Develops a more inclusive workplace culture

  • Motivates significant change

  • Strengthens teamwork

Genecov concludes that by advocating for policies that promote diversity, women leaders help strengthen institutions and ensure that the federal workforce reflects the population it serves. This is vital for driving continued progress and equity.

Value of Diversity and Inclusion in the Federal Government

“Diversity and inclusion in the federal government are vital for creating policies that reflect the real needs and experiences of all employees,” says Genecov. “When diverse perspectives are represented at decision-making tables, public service becomes more inclusive and equitable, benefiting the entire population…women leaders in the federal government can drive similar positive outcomes by advocating for and embracing change.”

“Diversity and inclusion in the federal government are invaluable,” exclaims Moore. “Embracing the diversity of other individuals, whether in thoughts, appearance or cultural beliefs, without judgment demonstrates inclusion. Feeling a sense of inclusion and belonging allows individuals to bring their authentic selves to work without fear of ridicule. Creating this safe space enhances productivity, engagement and organizational culture.”

Both women agree that diverse viewpoints and leadership styles help to challenge the status quo. Genecov adds, “This helps to dismantle systemic barriers and foster a more progressive, innovative approach to governance. Research, such as the McKinsey diversity report, shows that organizations with diverse leadership, including women in top positions, perform better, make more informed decisions and are more resilient.”

Tactics to Transform Public Service

Genecov and Moore recommend the following tactics for women leaders in the federal government to apply to impact change for improved public service:

1. Promote inclusive and transparent leadership.

    Women leaders in the federal government can drive change by:

    • Encouraging inclusive and transparent leadership

    • Demonstrating integrity, empathy and accountability to foster a more equitable public service environment

    Building strong alliances with colleagues and mentors amplifies women leaders’ impact, allowing them to advocate for policies that improve diversity and equity.

    2. Actively root for and champion other women.

      This is crucial in ensuring their voices are heard in meetings and not overshadowed. Managers also can provide candid, constructive feedback during performance reviews to support the development and growth of female employees. Mentoring and sponsoring underrepresented groups further helps cultivate a diverse talent pipeline, ensuring more inclusive decision-making.

      3. Recognize opportunities and actively pursue them.

      By identifying potential leadership roles and taking steps to prepare for them, you demonstrate initiative and commitment to your career growth. This can make you a more attractive candidate for future opportunities. Likewise, don’t neglect self-promotion. Share your strengths confidently and persistently. Talking about yourself can be challenging and is a work in progress.

      4. Use data to boost evidence-based reforms.

      Women leaders can use data and research to push for evidence-based reforms, such as gender pay equity and family-friendly policies while encouraging innovative approaches like new technologies to enhance government efficiency. By continuing to invest in your leadership development, you can remain an effective change agent, driving modernization and inclusivity in public service.

      5. Pay it forward.

      Women leaders can play a central role in shaping public policy by advocating for budget allocations or specific legislation. Establish policies and practices that encourage women’s leadership and promote gender parity.

      Many women leaders and organizations, such as Federally Employed Women (FEW), champion social justice and advocate for policies that address systemic inequalities. Women leaders can also help to address critical issues including education and healthcare.

      Priority Goals for Agency Leadership

      The Federal Government manages Agency Priority Goals (APGs) using a three-pronged approach that reflects agency leadership and the Administration’s top performance improvement priorities, encompassing:

      1. Public goal setting

      2. Data-driven performance review meetings with agency leadership no less than quarterly

      3. Quarterly public updates on www.Performance.gov.

      APGs reflect measurable results that leadership wants to accomplish over two years, advancing progress toward longer-term strategic goals and objectives outlined in the agency’s strategic plan. For the fiscal year 2022-2023, the U.S. Office of Personnel Management developed six APGs. 

      In conclusion, Genecov and Moore state that by leveraging unique perspectives, experiences and skills, women leaders in the federal government can significantly improve public service and create a more equal and just society.

      Leadership Training Resources

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      • The federal system

      • Career development and planning techniques

      • Personal effectiveness and awareness of the broader issues that impact women

      The focus of FEW’s training is to improve professional and leadership skills while advancing workplace marketability through the following core areas:

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