Accountability for USPS Leadership

Accountability for USPS Leadership
By John Aceves
Former NAPS Secretary/Treasurer

There needs to be accountability for USPS leaders who continually issue frivolous discipline. To address ongoing concerns, it is vital to establish mechanisms that hold leaders at every level answerable for their actions. The USPS can help prevent the misuse of disciplinary measures and reinforce a fair and respectful workplace.

Encouraging managers to lead by example and ensuring any reports of misconduct are thoroughly investigated will further strengthen organizational integrity and foster trust among employees. How about leadership holds managers accountable who continually ignore USPS rules and regulations and continue to issue frivolous discipline?

We need to hold these managers accountable and draw attention to this leadership style. In my training segments, I’ve always shared this message: “Hold those accountable who hold you accountable.”

You know them—the ones who issue discipline without following policy that proposed EAS discipline goes through district Labor Relations before issuance. Many times, Labor Relations can stop these managers in their tracks.

Some senior leaders have repeatedly disregarded established rules and regulations. Despite these infractions, they continue to impose frivolous disciplinary actions and are not held accountable.

If you are in a toxic, heavy-handed discipline work environment, don’t suffer in silence. Call your local NAPS representatives and/or call the USPS anti-harassment information hotline at 1-877-521-4272.

By fostering transparency and encouraging open communication about such concerns, the USPS can create an environment where ethical leadership is the standard. Implementing clear channels for reporting misconduct and reinforcing the importance of equitable treatment at all levels will help rebuild trust and ensure all employees are held to the same standards of conduct—even them.

Rather than use “sledgehammer” or “discipline” management, how about implementing one of the several mentoring programs to assist those in need of coaching and guidance? That is preferable to allowing frivolous discipline and these managers taking the easy way of doing their jobs in order to promote a positive working environment. See ELM Version 55, section 721.4.

It is essential to ensure that managers displaying these behaviors are held accountable for their actions. Bringing these issues to the attention of their managers and higher-level managers can help address the issue effectively and promote a culture of responsibility in the USPS.

Merry Christmas! I hope everyone has a safe and happy new year.

Taking care of business the “NAPS way.”