Q: I am a GS-09 seeking a promotion go a GS-11 position. How can I be sure that I will get a promotion? I already fill in for GS-11 employees when they are out sick or use leave. I believe I already have some of the experience and qualifications needed for a promotion.
A: Gaining the experience you have by filling in for higher-graded employees is an excellent source of experience, and hopefully an indicator that you will be promoted in the future. However, there is no way to be sure that you will get a promotion. There must first be a vacancy which the agency decides to fill, and then you must be selected as the best-qualified. You may also be required to spend a certain amount of time at your current grade before becoming eligible for a promotion.
There is no way to guarantee that you will be found the best qualified for an announced vacancy. However, seeking out relevant training, accreting duties, gaining experience by filling in for the other employees, applying for every relevant vacancy – perhaps even in another geographic area or with another Agency – will make you a more competitive applicant for a promotion.
This case law update was written by Michael S. Causey, associate attorney, Shaw Bransford & Roth, PC.
For thirty years, Shaw Bransford & Roth P.C. has provided superior representation on a wide range of federal employment law issues, from representing federal employees nationwide in administrative investigations, disciplinary and performance actions, and Bivens lawsuits, to handling security clearance adjudications and employment discrimination cases
