FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q: How many participants will there be?
A: Each class can accommodate 15 to 18 participants.

Q. How are the participants selected?
A. Nominations submitted by supervisors will be the driving force to acceptance into the program. Each application is reviewed and evaluated based on the selection criteria below.  To be considered employees must have completed at least six months’ service at the University and have achieved at least a “Contributor” rating in the probationary progress review.

Special consideration will be given to entry level staff or newer employees who, for the first time or after a personal transition, are entering the workforce or joining a large employer.
Selection criteria will include:

• Staff support in entry level positions (typically Pay Bands I and II)
• Staff who want to improve their effectiveness
• Career aspirations of nominee
• Quality of application and thoroughness of answers
• How the nominee and the department will benefit by the program
• Commitment from and support of the nominee's supervisor

Q. How much time will be required to participate in the program?
A. The overall time commitment is for thirteen weeks.  There are a total of seven class sessions.  Meeting dates are every other Wednesday for half day sessions (5 hours each).  That is why it is so important for both the participant and the supervisor to understand the commitment.

Q: What if you get more nominees than space permits?  Will there be other opportunities to attend?
A: Yes.  We plan to schedule offerings several times a year to meet employee and University interest.

Q: Is this similar to other basic work skills programs?
A: Essential WorkSkills is designed specifically for University of Virginia employees and will focus on knowledge and skills necessary to be a successful in our unique environment.

Q: Will completing the program qualify participants for a promotion?
A: No. The program is designed to help improve general workplace skills.  It will help participants be successful in their current position.  While this may also assist employees in their future career advancement, it is not specifically required for promotions.   Successful completion of the program does earn the employee a certificate of achievement and a one-time, base salary increase of $600 per year.

Q: Which job titles are allowed to participate in the program?
A: Nominations are accepted for employees in any job title. However, the program is particularly targeted for staff in entry level positions, typically Pay Bands I and II.  We urge supervisors to frankly discuss the appropriateness of the program with their employees to gauge whether or not this is the right program for them.

Q: Why does the supervisor need to sign the form?
A: A supervisor's signature on the application form indicates that the supervisor feels the employee is able and ready to participate in the program. It also confirms that the supervisor understands the program requirements, will allow the nominee to fully participate in the program, will attend the supervisor orientation, and will provide funds for the one-time, $600 per year salary increase upon the employee’s successful completion of the program.

Q: My employee wants to be nominated for the program but I don't think he's ready. Am I expected to approve this request?
A: No. Supervisors should discuss career goals with their employees and support employees in the development of their career plans. If a supervisor feels a person is not well-suited for this program, he/she should explain why or suggest other development opportunities that will contribute to that person's growth.

Q: I’ve been an employee for many years but still feel I have a lot to learn. Can I still participate in the program?
A:  Speak with your supervisor.  While the program is targeted to new employees or employees new or re-entering the workforce, the content could also be beneficial to a longer term employee.  We anticipate that most interest will come from those fairly new to UVa (2 years or less). However, if you feel the curriculum will help you develop your skills, you should speak with your supervisor and ask to be nominated. 

Q: I’ve been an employee for many years and am already comfortable with the content areas taught in the program.  However, I’d like to develop my skills even more.  What do you suggest?
A: Check the University Human Resources web site for other training opportunities that may be better suited for your needs and interests. 

Q: The requirements say 100% attendance.  I have an aging family member and may need to take a few days off with short notice.  If I miss a session, will I fail the program?
A: No.  For true emergencies, University Human Resources will certainly work with you to determine possible make-up activities.  The preferred option would be to take the missed session at the next available opportunity.  If this isn’t possible, we will try to schedule you into a course of similar content and/or give you additional assignments to obtain the missed material. In some cases, you will be required to take the missed content during the next offering. Please note that missed sessions should be for emergencies only. We would expect that participants schedule their annual leave so that it doesn't interfere with their attendance at their regularly scheduled classes.

Q: Do I have to be a UVa employee to participate in the program?
A: Yes.

Q: Is this program open to employees of the University Health Systems Medical Center? 
A: No, not at the present time.  The Medical Center provides extensive entry-level training to their employees.  In addition to bi-weekly new employee orientation, the Medical Center also conducts a one-year on-boarding program.

Q: Is there a charge to my department to attend?
A: No. Participation is Free!

Q:  Is the one-time, $600 base salary increase included as part of the other salary increases a classified employee can receive in a year? 
A: No. The $600 salary increase is in addition to other salary increases the employee may be eligible to receive. 

Q:  How is the one-time, $600 base salary increase implemented?
A:  The one-time, $600 salary increase is processed automatically by University Human Resources to be effective on the first pay period following the employees successful completion of the program.  The increase is charged to the PATEO provided by the supervisor on the nomination form. 

Q:  Are wage employees eligible to participate in the program?
A: No, not at this time.  The program is initially intended for salaried employees.