September 19, 2023
Hi Team Commerce,
I hope this message finds you well. Fall is creeping up on us, and it brings to mind that we all have seasons of change. As we continue to navigate our agencies’ changing needs and processes, it’s important that we not only adapt to these changes but find ways to empower ourselves during these transition periods.
Change can be challenging, but it’s also an opportunity for growth. It’s a chance to take stock of where we are, where we want to be, and how we can get there. By embracing change and finding ways to be proactive, we can position ourselves for success.
I encourage each of you to take a moment to reflect on your own performance goals and how they align with Commerce’s vision for the future. Think about the skills and resources you need to achieve those goals and proactively seek opportunities to acquire them.
We understand the importance of recognizing your hard work and dedication, and that’s why we have included quarterly written evaluations to assess your performance on each objective outlined in your performance plan. This will help us assign an overall performance category and ensure fairness and transparency in the process.
I also want to provide some clarity on performance pay in 2024. Pay raises will be based on performance evaluations in four categories: Does not meet expectations, Meets expectations, Exceeds expectations, and Exemplary. Performance is evaluated quarterly, with an annual review at the end of the year. Those who meet or exceed expectations will receive pay-for-performance increases.
The first opportunity for performance pay will be after the first two quarterly evaluations in January 2024. The average pay raise will be 2.5%, and the specific amount will be based on your performance evaluation category, with the opportunity for a higher percentage based on a stellar performance.
We are committed to rewarding those who meet or exceed expectations, and we are confident that you will strive towards excellence in your work. Those who do not meet expectations will not receive additional pay, but we are optimistic that you can achieve your goals and receive a pay-for-performance increase with your dedication and hard work.
Now, I also want to give you a preview of what to expect in our upcoming One Commerce meeting on September 26. As always, we will recognize the great work of a few employees. We will also take time to cover the budget and aspects of pay increases, internal communication and engagement, and the upcoming building renovation.
Our Office of Professional Licensure Review will report on their research, findings, and recommendations regarding Behavioral Health professions, which will be published soon.
I will also spend some time giving you a legislative preview on topics such as Social Media Regulation, Foreign Credentialing, AI, Behavioral Health, and more. The industries we serve are always evolving; therefore, our regulatory work and policies must adapt to these changes. Though challenging, this is something we are well-prepared to handle.
In closing, I want to remind you that we are One Commerce and are all in this together. By supporting each other and working collaboratively, we can create a culture of empowerment and resilience that will serve us well through any change.
Thank you for all that you do, and let’s continue to move forward with confidence and purpose.