Executive Core Qualifications (ECQ)

Executive Core Qualifications (ECQ) are the most challenging part of the SES application. ECQs are narrative statements that include clear examples that demonstrate the competencies and characteristics needed to build executive leadership in a federal corporate culture that drives for results, serves customers, and builds successful teams and coalitions within and outside the organization.

The Executive Core Qualifications are required for entry to the Senior Executive Service and are used by many executive- level departments and agencies in the selection, performance management, and leadership development for management and executive positions. ECQs are used exclusively for selection and development of Senior Executive Service positions.

In 2008, OPM piloted two new methods for selecting members of the SES, the Accomplishment Record and Resume based methods. Both of these methods continue to be based on the ECQs. However, the Accomplishment Record method differs from the traditional approach to selecting SES members in that applicants are not asked to address the five broad ECQs but rather on a select few of the 28 executive competencies underlying them. The Resume-based option is even simpler, with the applicant showing possession of the ECQs in a standard resume format.

When hiring through a competitive vacancy announcement, agencies choose one of the following selection methods:

Traditional ECQ: The vacancy announcement directs applicants to address all 5 ECQs and ECQ core competencies.

Resume based: The vacancy announcement directs applicants to submit only a resume. Applicants show possession of the ECQs and any technical qualifications via the resume.

Accomplishment Record: The vacancy announcement directs applicants to submit a resume and narratives addressing selected competencies underlying the ECQs and any technical qualifications.

The current ECQs are Leading Change; Leading People; Results Driven; Business Acumen; and Building Coalitions/Communication. These ECQs represent a shift from passive management to active leadership. The emphasis today is on making things happen and getting results, rather than on managing a process.