Code of conduct

We abide by the Technology Transformation Service's Code of Conduct

What we strive for

We strive to create a welcoming and inclusive culture that empowers people to provide outstanding public service. That kind of atmosphere requires an open exchange of ideas balanced by thoughtful guidelines. If we have only openness, colleagues who are on the receiving end of thoughtless or intentionally hurtful comments and behavior may reasonably withdraw. If we have overly intrusive guidelines, people may feel unwelcome.

It would be impossible to list everything staff can do to create a more welcoming space, and we know this team will find ways to include their colleagues that we haven't even thought of. But when in doubt, we encourage you to look to these principles for guidance:

• Practice empathy and humility.
• Assume competence in your colleagues, clients and the public.
• Assume that everyone we work with is doing their best work for the public.
• Listen carefully and actively.
• Ask questions, and seek to understand.
• Encourage other people to listen as much as they speak.
• Treat other people's identities and cultures with respect. Make an effort to say people's names correctly and refer to them by their stated pronouns.

Unacceptable Behavior

To help colleagues understand the kinds of behaviors that are illegal or run counter to the culture we seek to foster, we've listed below actions that violate federal law and GSA policy. We've also included steps to take if you encounter behavior that runs contrary to this policy.

Sexual and non-sexual harassment and misconduct, as defined in GSA Order ADM 2325.8 Section 3(a), (b) and (c).

• Unwelcome verbal or written comment or physical conduct based on:
  • race,
  • religion,
  • color,
  • sex (with or without sexual conduct and including pregnancy and sexual orientation involving transgender status/gender identity, and sex-stereotyping)
  • national origin,
  • age,
  • disability,
  • genetic information,
  • sexual orientation,
  • gender identity,
  • parental status,
  • marital status,
  • or political affiliation.
• Retaliating against anyone who files a formal complaint that someone has violated GSA anti-harassment policies.

Conduct Unbecoming a Federal Employee

Federal employees can be subject to appropriate discipline, up to and including removal, for conduct unbecoming a federal employee, which is conduct which is unattractive; unsuitable; detracting from one's character or reputation; or creates an unfavorable impression. Abusive and demeaning remarks to and about others in the workplace, and sexual remarks, which do not rise to the level of sexual harassment under the employment discrimination laws, nonetheless can be considered conduct unbecoming a federal employee.

Other Unacceptable Behavior

• Sustained disruption of meetings, talks, or discussions, including chat rooms.
• Mocking someone's real or perceived accent or first language.
• Repeatedly interrupting or talking over other people in meetings and discussions.
• Negative or offensive remarks based on gender expression, mental illness, socioeconomic status or background, neuro(a)typicality, physical appearance, or body size.
• Using emoji or creation of custom emoji for unacceptable behavior.

You can find a bit more detail in the TTS Handbook