2018 Public Service Employee Survey Results by Theme for Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada by Question 84. In which province or territory do you work?

The results of the 2018 Public Service Employee Survey (PSES) are presented by key people management themes (i.e., employee engagement, leadership, workforce, workplace). Results are not shown when there is no historical comparison, or when there is an insufficient number of responses.

Note: Due to rounding, percentages may not add to 100. Results have been adjusted for non-response to better represent the target population. Therefore, percentages should not be used to determine the number of respondents within a response category. Positive answers and Negative answers are calculated by removing the "Don't know" and "Not applicable" responses from the total responses.

Table of Contents

Top of Page

Employee engagement

Question 5. I get a sense of satisfaction from my work.

Survey year Demographic Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 34 47 8 7 4 0 0 80 12 113
2017 National Capital Region 37 38 10 11 4 0 0 75 15 129
2014 National Capital Region 41 43 7 6 3 1 0 84 9 148

Question 9. Overall, I feel valued at work.

Survey year Demographic Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 39 38 6 11 6 0 0 77 17 113
2017 National Capital Region 37 32 14 9 8 0 0 69 17 129

Question 10. I am proud of the work that I do.

Survey year Demographic Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 49 37 9 4 2 0 0 86 5 113
2017 National Capital Region 49 36 8 6 1 0 0 85 7 129
2014 National Capital Region 70 19 7 2 1 1 0 90 3 147

Question 14. Overall, I like my job.

Survey year Demographic Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 45 35 13 4 3 0 0 80 7 112
2017 National Capital Region 34 39 12 11 4 0 0 73 15 129
2014 National Capital Region 51 35 7 3 3 1 0 86 6 148

Question 43. I would recommend my department or agency as a great place to work.

Survey year Demographic Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 49 29 12 7 3 0 0 79 10 113
2017 National Capital Region 46 27 11 12 2 1 0 74 15 129
2014 National Capital Region 53 30 10 4 3 1 0 84 6 148

Question 44. I am satisfied with my department or agency.

Survey year Demographic Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 45 33 13 6 3 0 0 78 9 113
2017 National Capital Region 41 30 15 10 4 0 0 71 14 129
2014 National Capital Region 49 34 9 4 3 1 0 84 7 148

Question 45. I would prefer to remain with my department or agency, even if a comparable job was available elsewhere in the federal public service.

Survey year Demographic Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 40 23 19 11 4 3 0 65 16 113
2017 National Capital Region 34 24 13 13 10 5 1 62 24 128
2014 National Capital Region 46 20 14 10 7 2 0 68 17 148
Top of Page

Leadership

Immediate supervisor

Question 23. I can count on my immediate supervisor to keep his or her promises.

Survey year Demographic Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 51 30 14 1 2 2 0 83 3 111
2017 National Capital Region 53 29 10 4 1 2 1 85 5 129
2014 National Capital Region 61 18 7 7 3 3 1 82 10 148

Question 24. My immediate supervisor keeps me informed about the issues affecting my work.

Survey year Demographic Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 46 33 7 9 5 0 0 79 14 111
2017 National Capital Region 47 34 8 5 6 0 0 81 11 129
2014 National Capital Region 56 28 6 6 3 1 1 85 9 148

Question 26. I am satisfied with the quality of supervision I receive.

Survey year Demographic Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 50 29 12 6 3 0 0 79 9 111
2017 National Capital Region 55 31 7 4 2 1 0 87 6 129
2014 National Capital Region 58 23 9 4 5 1 0 82 9 148

Senior management

Question 29. Senior managers in my department or agency lead by example in ethical behaviour.

Survey year Demographic Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 47 34 8 4 4 3 0 84 8 113
2017 National Capital Region 41 34 12 7 3 3 0 78 10 128
2014 National Capital Region 39 37 7 7 4 5 0 81 12 148

Question 30. I have confidence in the senior management of my department or agency.

Survey year Demographic Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 42 35 11 8 4 0 0 77 12 113
2017 National Capital Region 41 26 17 9 5 1 0 68 14 129
2014 National Capital Region 42 35 9 8 6 1 0 78 14 148

Question 31. Senior management in my department or agency makes effective and timely decisions.

Survey year Demographic Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 23 43 15 13 4 2 0 67 17 113
2017 National Capital Region 27 37 16 9 4 8 0 69 14 129
2014 National Capital Region 34 34 14 10 4 4 0 71 14 148

Question 32. Essential information flows effectively from senior management to staff.

Survey year Demographic Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 25 41 12 15 4 3 0 68 20 113
2017 National Capital Region 24 40 13 12 8 3 0 66 21 129
2014 National Capital Region 29 43 12 9 5 1 0 73 15 148
Top of Page

Workforce

Performance management

Question 6. I receive meaningful recognition for work well done.

Survey year Demographic Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 35 40 8 7 10 0 0 75 17 112
2017 National Capital Region 34 32 13 11 9 1 0 66 20 129
2014 National Capital Region 38 33 15 7 6 1 0 71 13 148

Question 7. I have clear work objectives.

Survey year Demographic Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 39 39 13 6 4 0 0 77 10 111
2017 National Capital Region 35 45 9 5 5 0 0 80 11 129

Question 19. In my work unit, unsatisfactory employee performance is managed effectively.

Survey year Demographic Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 15 21 20 14 7 18 5 47 27 111
2017 National Capital Region 14 24 13 15 10 21 3 50 33 129
2014 National Capital Region 18 27 10 12 12 17 5 57 30 148

Question 22. I receive useful feedback from my immediate supervisor on my job performance.

Survey year Demographic Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 47 31 10 9 4 0 0 77 13 111
2017 National Capital Region 48 31 11 4 5 0 1 80 9 128
2014 National Capital Region 48 33 8 6 4 1 1 82 10 148

Question 28. I receive the support I need from senior management to address unsatisfactory performance issues in my work unit. (for supervisors)

Survey year Demographic Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2017 National Capital Region 42 22 12 5 0 5 14 78 6 41
2014 National Capital Region 49 23 9 7 4 7 2 79 12 45

Job fit and development

Question 1. I get the training I need to do my job.

Survey year Demographic Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 42 39 8 10 2 0 0 80 12 113
2017 National Capital Region 33 40 10 14 3 0 1 73 17 129
2014 National Capital Region 39 35 10 11 4 1 0 74 15 148

Question 2. My job is a good fit with my interests.

Survey year Demographic Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 51 32 10 5 2 0 0 83 7 113
2017 National Capital Region 46 32 12 8 3 0 0 77 11 129
2014 National Capital Region 45 42 5 4 3 1 0 87 7 148

Question 3. My job is a good fit with my skills.

Survey year Demographic Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 57 32 5 4 1 0 0 89 5 112
2017 National Capital Region 52 35 5 6 2 0 0 87 9 129
2014 National Capital Region 52 36 5 5 1 1 0 90 5 148

Question 37. My department or agency does a good job of supporting employee career development.

Survey year Demographic Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 29 33 17 10 8 4 0 64 19 112
2017 National Capital Region 34 37 13 6 8 2 1 72 14 127
2014 National Capital Region 38 35 8 10 5 3 2 77 15 148

Question 38. I believe I have opportunities for promotion within my department or agency, given my education, skills and experience.

Survey year Demographic Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 17 25 14 19 20 3 2 43 42 113
2017 National Capital Region 13 18 13 20 29 2 5 32 53 129
2014 National Capital Region 14 21 18 16 23 3 5 38 43 148

Empowerment

Question 11. I have opportunities to provide input into decisions that affect my work.

Survey year Demographic Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 31 41 17 9 3 0 0 71 12 113
2017 National Capital Region 34 38 13 11 5 0 0 72 16 129
2014 National Capital Region 38 39 10 7 6 1 0 77 13 148

Question 12. I am encouraged to be innovative or to take initiative in my work.

Survey year Demographic Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 40 33 12 10 5 1 0 73 15 113
2017 National Capital Region 39 32 10 12 7 0 0 71 19 129
2014 National Capital Region 45 29 10 11 5 1 0 75 15 148

Question 13. I have support at work to provide a high level of service.

Survey year Demographic Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 35 38 14 9 4 0 0 74 12 113
2017 National Capital Region 37 37 8 12 5 0 1 75 17 129
2014 National Capital Region 41 38 9 9 3 1 0 80 11 148

Question 39. I feel I would be supported by my department or agency if I proposed a new idea.

Survey year Demographic Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 35 37 16 5 4 2 0 73 10 112
2017 National Capital Region 30 38 17 9 4 1 2 69 13 128

Work-life balance and workload

Question 4. I have support at work to balance my work and personal life.

Survey year Demographic Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 45 35 8 8 2 0 2 82 10 113
2017 National Capital Region 44 35 8 7 6 0 0 79 13 128
2014 National Capital Region 43 34 11 9 1 1 1 78 11 148

Question 15. I can complete my assigned workload during my regular working hours.

Survey year Demographic Always/ Almost always
(%)
Often
(%)
Sometimes
(%)
Rarely
(%)
Never/ Almost never
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 24 31 27 12 6 0 0 55 18 113
2017 National Capital Region 30 31 26 7 7 0 0 60 14 129
2014 National Capital Region 33 34 16 9 6 1 1 68 15 148

Mobility and retention

Question 46. Do you intend to leave your current position in the next two years?

Survey year Demographic Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Not Sure
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 28 35 36 113
2017 National Capital Region 34 27 39 128
2014 National Capital Region 29 27 44 148

Question 47. Please indicate your reason for leaving.

Survey year Demographic To retire
(%)
To pursue another position within my department or agency
(%)
To pursue a position in another department or agency
(%)
To pursue a position outside the federal public service
(%)
End of my term, casual or student employment
(%)
Other
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 3 13 69 9 3 3 32
2017 National Capital Region 7 15 67 5 0 6 43
2014 National Capital Region 20 19 47 9 9999 5 42
Top of Page

Workplace

Organizational goals

Question 8. I know how my work contributes to the achievement of my department’s or agency’s goals.

Survey year Demographic Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 53 38 5 3 1 0 0 91 4 113
2017 National Capital Region 53 32 7 4 4 0 0 85 8 129
2014 National Capital Region 55 36 3 4 1 1 0 92 5 148

Question 33. My department or agency does a good job of communicating its vision, mission and goals.

Survey year Demographic Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 48 38 10 2 1 1 0 87 3 112
2017 National Capital Region 38 49 6 5 2 0 0 87 7 128
2014 National Capital Region 47 39 7 5 1 2 0 88 5 148

Organizational performance

Question 16a. I feel that the quality of my work suffers because of... constantly changing priorities.

Survey year Demographic Always/ Almost always
(%)
Often
(%)
Sometimes
(%)
Rarely
(%)
Never/ Almost never
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 11 18 37 27 6 0 2 33 29 113
2017 National Capital Region 12 16 38 21 11 2 1 33 28 128
2014 National Capital Region 5 11 44 22 14 1 2 38 17 148

Question 16b. I feel that the quality of my work suffers because of... lack of stability in my department or agency.

Survey year Demographic Always/ Almost always
(%)
Often
(%)
Sometimes
(%)
Rarely
(%)
Never/ Almost never
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 3 12 32 30 18 1 4 50 16 113
2017 National Capital Region 6 7 22 34 29 1 1 65 13 128
2014 National Capital Region 1 7 23 34 29 3 3 67 8 148

Question 16c. I feel that the quality of my work suffers because of... too many approval stages.

Survey year Demographic Always/ Almost always
(%)
Often
(%)
Sometimes
(%)
Rarely
(%)
Never/ Almost never
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 9 19 29 27 12 1 3 41 29 113
2017 National Capital Region 9 16 27 21 26 2 0 48 25 128
2014 National Capital Region 10 13 26 26 23 1 1 50 24 146

Question 16d. I feel that the quality of my work suffers because of... unreasonable deadlines.

Survey year Demographic Always/ Almost always
(%)
Often
(%)
Sometimes
(%)
Rarely
(%)
Never/ Almost never
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 4 14 34 34 12 0 3 47 18 113
2017 National Capital Region 6 17 28 30 17 1 1 48 23 128
2014 National Capital Region 1 15 31 34 16 1 2 52 16 147

Question 16e. I feel that the quality of my work suffers because of... having to do the same or more work, but with fewer resources.

Survey year Demographic Always/ Almost always
(%)
Often
(%)
Sometimes
(%)
Rarely
(%)
Never/ Almost never
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 19 22 24 21 7 2 4 30 44 113
2017 National Capital Region 15 22 30 21 12 0 1 33 37 128
2014 National Capital Region 13 25 27 22 8 2 3 32 40 148

Question 16f. I feel that the quality of my work suffers because of... high staff turnover.

Survey year Demographic Always/ Almost always
(%)
Often
(%)
Sometimes
(%)
Rarely
(%)
Never/ Almost never
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 6 17 38 22 11 3 4 35 24 113
2017 National Capital Region 5 11 33 31 18 2 0 50 17 128
2014 National Capital Region 3 13 24 31 19 5 5 56 18 148

Question 16g. I feel that the quality of my work suffers because of... overly complicated or unnecessary business processes.

Survey year Demographic Always/ Almost always
(%)
Often
(%)
Sometimes
(%)
Rarely
(%)
Never/ Almost never
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 9 17 30 31 10 0 4 42 27 112
2017 National Capital Region 8 12 33 33 12 1 1 46 20 128
2014 National Capital Region 8 15 37 19 13 4 4 34 25 148

Respectful workplace

Question 18. In my work unit, every individual is accepted as an equal member of the team.

Survey year Demographic Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 37 34 10 10 6 3 0 73 17 110
2017 National Capital Region 48 23 13 10 6 0 0 71 16 129
2014 National Capital Region 48 28 7 7 7 2 1 78 15 148

Question 20. In my work unit, individuals behave in a respectful manner.

Survey year Demographic Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 46 39 9 4 3 0 0 85 6 111
2017 National Capital Region 44 43 3 9 1 0 0 87 10 129
2014 National Capital Region 51 37 4 4 2 1 1 90 6 148

Question 21. The people I work with value my ideas and opinions.

Survey year Demographic Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 45 38 10 6 1 0 0 84 6 110

Question 40. My department or agency implements activities and practicesthat support a diverse workplace.

A diverse workplace includes everyone, regardless of race, national or ethnic origin, colour, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital or family status, religion, age, language, culture, background, interests, views or other dimensions.

Survey year Demographic Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 40 36 14 6 1 4 0 78 8 112
2017 National Capital Region 35 35 16 6 3 5 0 74 10 129
2014 National Capital Region 45 27 13 5 1 8 0 79 7 148

Question 41. I think that my department or agency respects individual differences (e.g., culture, work styles, ideas).

Survey year Demographic Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 37 45 11 4 1 2 0 84 5 112
2017 National Capital Region 37 45 8 6 2 1 0 84 8 129
2014 National Capital Region 45 36 8 5 2 4 0 85 7 148

Question 42. Overall, my department or agency treats me with respect.

Survey year Demographic Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 55 35 8 2 1 0 0 89 3 113
2017 National Capital Region 47 41 4 6 2 0 0 88 8 129
2014 National Capital Region 59 32 4 3 2 1 0 91 5 148

Ethical workplace

Question 17. I am satisfied with how interpersonal issues are resolved in my work unit.

Survey year Demographic Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 27 31 14 12 5 8 4 66 19 111
2017 National Capital Region 32 27 13 14 4 4 5 65 20 129
2014 National Capital Region 29 30 15 9 4 8 5 68 14 148

Question 34. If I am faced with an ethical dilemma or a conflict between values in the workplace, I know where I can go for help in resolving the situation.

Survey year Demographic Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 39 40 8 5 3 5 1 84 8 112
2017 National Capital Region 48 30 9 6 2 3 2 82 8 128
2014 National Capital Region 48 28 7 8 6 1 1 78 14 148

Question 35. My department or agency does a good job of promoting values and ethics in the workplace.

Survey year Demographic Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 40 34 17 3 3 3 0 76 6 113

Question 36. I feel I can initiate a formal recourse process (e.g., grievance, complaint, appeal) without fear of reprisal.

Survey year Demographic Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 20 27 17 13 7 13 3 56 24 113
2017 National Capital Region 11 28 14 12 15 16 4 49 34 126
2014 National Capital Region 16 19 18 9 14 16 8 45 31 148

Harassment

Harassment is normally a series of incidents, but it can be one severe incident that has a lasting impact on the individual.
Harassment is any improper conduct by an individual that is directed at and offensive to another individual in the workplace, including at any event or any location related to work, and that the individual knew or ought reasonably to have known would cause offence or harm. It comprises objectionable act(s), comment(s) or display(s) that demean, belittle, or cause personal humiliation or embarrassment, and any act of intimidation or threat. It also includes harassment within the meaning of the Canadian Human Rights Act (i.e., based on race, national or ethnic origin, colour, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, family status, genetic characteristics [including a requirement to undergo a genetic test, or disclose the results of a genetic test], disability or conviction for an offence for which a pardon has been granted or in respect of which a record suspension has been ordered).

Question 48. Having carefully read the definition of harassment, have you been the victim of harassment on the job in the past 12 months?

Survey year Demographic Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 9 91 111

Question 53. I am satisfied with how matters related to harassment are resolved in my department or agency.

Survey year Demographic Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 17 17 21 4 4 31 6 53 13 113
2017 National Capital Region 12 11 22 6 4 40 7 42 18 129
2014 National Capital Region 18 13 10 3 7 35 15 61 20 148

Question 54. My department or agency works hard to create a workplace that prevents harassment.

Survey year Demographic Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 23 34 24 4 3 13 0 65 7 113
2017 National Capital Region 27 32 18 9 3 12 0 66 13 129
2014 National Capital Region 31 32 11 7 2 15 3 76 11 148

Discrimination

Discrimination means treating someone differently or unfairly because of a personal characteristic or distinction, which, whether intentional or not, has an effect that imposes disadvantages not imposed on others or that withholds or limits access that is given to others. There are 13 prohibited grounds of discrimination under the Canadian Human Rights Act (i.e., based on race, national or ethnic origin, colour, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, family status, genetic characteristics [including a requirement to undergo a genetic test, or disclose the results of a genetic test], disability or conviction for an offence for which a pardon has been granted or in respect of which a record suspension has been ordered).

Question 55. Having carefully read the definition of discrimination, have you been the victim of discrimination on the job in the past 12 months?

Survey year Demographic Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 6 94 113

Question 60. I am satisfied with how matters related to discrimination are resolved in my department or agency.

Survey year Demographic Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 14 15 20 2 2 40 7 55 7 113
2017 National Capital Region 11 14 18 3 2 44 8 51 11 128
2014 National Capital Region 17 8 16 1 3 45 9 57 8 148

Question 61. My department or agency works hard to create a workplace that prevents discrimination.

Survey year Demographic Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 22 32 23 2 2 19 0 67 4 113
2017 National Capital Region 32 34 15 5 1 11 2 76 7 129
2014 National Capital Region 33 28 13 1 3 21 1 79 4 148
Top of Page

Workplace well-being

A psychologically healthy workplace

Question 25. My immediate supervisor seems to care about me as a person.

Survey year Demographic Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 56 28 8 4 4 1 0 84 7 111
2017 National Capital Region 65 19 5 7 2 2 0 86 9 129

Question 65. My department or agency does a good job of raising awareness of mental health in the workplace.

Survey year Demographic Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 57 34 5 3 0 0 0 91 3 113
2017 National Capital Region 57 32 9 1 0 1 0 90 1 129

Question 66. I would describe my workplace as being psychologically healthy.

A psychologically healthy workplace is one that promotes employees’ psychological well-being and actively works to prevent harm to employee psychological health due to negligent, reckless or intentional acts.

Survey year Demographic Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 30 38 16 9 4 2 1 70 14 113
2017 National Capital Region 22 46 14 14 4 0 0 68 18 129

Work-related stress

Question 62a. Overall, to what extent do the following factors cause you stress at work? Pay or other compensation-related issues

Survey year Demographic Not at all
(%)
To a small extent
(%)
To a moderate extent
(%)
To a large extent
(%)
To a very large extent
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 38 27 18 9 9 0 0 65 18 113
2017 National Capital Region 40 25 16 8 10 0 1 65 18 128

Question 62b. Overall, to what extent do the following factors cause you stress at work? Heavy workload

Survey year Demographic Not at all
(%)
To a small extent
(%)
To a moderate extent
(%)
To a large extent
(%)
To a very large extent
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 13 21 28 24 13 0 1 34 38 112
2017 National Capital Region 14 21 24 23 18 0 0 35 41 129

Question 62c. Overall, to what extent do the following factors cause you stress at work? Unreasonable deadlines

Survey year Demographic Not at all
(%)
To a small extent
(%)
To a moderate extent
(%)
To a large extent
(%)
To a very large extent
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 20 30 26 12 9 0 2 51 22 113
2017 National Capital Region 21 28 24 12 13 1 2 50 25 129

Question 62d. Overall, to what extent do the following factors cause you stress at work? Not enough employees to do the work

Survey year Demographic Not at all
(%)
To a small extent
(%)
To a moderate extent
(%)
To a large extent
(%)
To a very large extent
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 13 20 23 23 19 0 2 34 43 113
2017 National Capital Region 17 23 20 20 18 0 2 41 39 129

Question 62e. Overall, to what extent do the following factors cause you stress at work? Overtime or long work hours

Survey year Demographic Not at all
(%)
To a small extent
(%)
To a moderate extent
(%)
To a large extent
(%)
To a very large extent
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 41 29 14 9 4 0 4 73 13 113
2017 National Capital Region 42 21 17 6 5 1 9 70 12 129

Question 62f. Overall, to what extent do the following factors cause you stress at work? Balancing work and personal life

Survey year Demographic Not at all
(%)
To a small extent
(%)
To a moderate extent
(%)
To a large extent
(%)
To a very large extent
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 24 30 24 17 4 0 2 55 21 113
2017 National Capital Region 28 27 27 10 8 0 0 55 18 128

Question 62g. Overall, to what extent do the following factors cause you stress at work? Lack of control or input in decision-making

Survey year Demographic Not at all
(%)
To a small extent
(%)
To a moderate extent
(%)
To a large extent
(%)
To a very large extent
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 29 35 27 6 3 0 0 64 9 111
2017 National Capital Region 33 34 17 6 9 0 1 68 15 127

Question 62h. Overall, to what extent do the following factors cause you stress at work? Competing or constantly changing priorities

Survey year Demographic Not at all
(%)
To a small extent
(%)
To a moderate extent
(%)
To a large extent
(%)
To a very large extent
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 29 30 17 13 8 0 2 61 22 111
2017 National Capital Region 27 31 19 11 12 0 0 58 22 128

Question 62i. Overall, to what extent do the following factors cause you stress at work? Lack of clear expectations

Survey year Demographic Not at all
(%)
To a small extent
(%)
To a moderate extent
(%)
To a large extent
(%)
To a very large extent
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 28 38 16 13 5 0 1 66 17 111
2017 National Capital Region 31 30 17 10 10 0 2 62 20 128

Question 62j. Overall, to what extent do the following factors cause you stress at work? Information overload

Survey year Demographic Not at all
(%)
To a small extent
(%)
To a moderate extent
(%)
To a large extent
(%)
To a very large extent
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 34 26 19 14 5 1 2 62 19 111
2017 National Capital Region 33 28 21 6 9 1 2 63 15 128

Question 62k. Overall, to what extent do the following factors cause you stress at work? Physical work environment

Survey year Demographic Not at all
(%)
To a small extent
(%)
To a moderate extent
(%)
To a large extent
(%)
To a very large extent
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 56 18 12 9 5 0 0 74 14 111
2017 National Capital Region 44 24 19 6 6 0 1 68 13 129

Question 62l. Overall, to what extent do the following factors cause you stress at work? Accessibility or accommodation issues

Survey year Demographic Not at all
(%)
To a small extent
(%)
To a moderate extent
(%)
To a large extent
(%)
To a very large extent
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 77 9 3 5 1 1 5 91 6 110

Question 62m. Overall, to what extent do the following factors cause you stress at work? Harassment or discrimination

Survey year Demographic Not at all
(%)
To a small extent
(%)
To a moderate extent
(%)
To a large extent
(%)
To a very large extent
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 75 13 3 5 1 2 3 92 6 111
2017 National Capital Region 72 12 9 4 2 0 1 85 6 129

Question 62n. Overall, to what extent do the following factors cause you stress at work? Issue(s) with my co-worker(s)

Survey year Demographic Not at all
(%)
To a small extent
(%)
To a moderate extent
(%)
To a large extent
(%)
To a very large extent
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 56 26 10 4 0 1 4 86 4 111
2017 National Capital Region 57 24 13 3 2 0 1 82 5 129

Question 62o. Overall, to what extent do the following factors cause you stress at work? Issue(s) with individuals with authority over me

Survey year Demographic Not at all
(%)
To a small extent
(%)
To a moderate extent
(%)
To a large extent
(%)
To a very large extent
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 58 21 9 6 4 0 3 81 10 111
2017 National Capital Region 57 16 15 8 3 1 1 74 11 129

Question 62p. Overall, to what extent do the following factors cause you stress at work? Issue(s) with individual(s) working for me

Survey year Demographic Not at all
(%)
To a small extent
(%)
To a moderate extent
(%)
To a large extent
(%)
To a very large extent
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 53 12 5 1 1 0 27 90 2 109
2017 National Capital Region 60 10 3 1 1 0 24 93 3 129

Question 62q. Overall, to what extent do the following factors cause you stress at work? Issue(s) with other individual(s) (e.g., members of the public, individuals from other departments or agencies)

Survey year Demographic Not at all
(%)
To a small extent
(%)
To a moderate extent
(%)
To a large extent
(%)
To a very large extent
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 69 13 11 3 1 0 5 85 4 111
2017 National Capital Region 60 23 10 1 1 0 6 88 2 128

Question 62r. Overall, to what extent do the following factors cause you stress at work? Lack of job security

Survey year Demographic Not at all
(%)
To a small extent
(%)
To a moderate extent
(%)
To a large extent
(%)
To a very large extent
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 78 4 7 3 2 1 4 88 5 111
2017 National Capital Region 73 14 4 1 3 1 4 92 4 129

Question 62s. Overall, to what extent do the following factors cause you stress at work? Personal issues

Survey year Demographic Not at all
(%)
To a small extent
(%)
To a moderate extent
(%)
To a large extent
(%)
To a very large extent
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 49 31 10 4 2 0 4 84 6 111
2017 National Capital Region 53 31 9 4 2 0 1 85 6 129

Question 63. Overall, my level of work-related stress is…

Survey year Demographic Very low
(%)
Low
(%)
Moderate
(%)
High
(%)
Very high
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 11 28 35 19 7 0 0 39 26 113
2017 National Capital Region 10 28 34 16 11 1 0 38 27 129

Question 64. After my workday, I feel emotionally drained.

Survey year Demographic Always/ Almost always
(%)
Often
(%)
Sometimes
(%)
Rarely
(%)
Never/ Almost never
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 11 24 30 27 9 0 0 36 35 112
2017 National Capital Region 10 24 31 24 10 1 1 34 34 128
Top of Page

Compensation

Pay or other compensation issues

Question 67. To what extent has your pay or other compensation been affected by issues with the Phoenix pay system?

Survey year Demographic Not at all
(%)
To a small extent
(%)
To a moderate extent
(%)
To a large extent
(%)
To a very large extent
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 32 31 18 7 10 3 0 33 67 113
2017 National Capital Region 34 34 9 5 13 5 0 35 65 129

Question 68a. Please indicate which of the following pay or other compensation issues you have experienced: Missing regular pay

Survey year Demographic
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 38 74
2017 National Capital Region 32 79

Question 68b. Please indicate which of the following pay or other compensation issues you have experienced: Underpayment of regular pay

Survey year Demographic
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 35 74
2017 National Capital Region 38 79

Question 68c. Please indicate which of the following pay or other compensation issues you have experienced: Overpayment of regular pay

Survey year Demographic
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 28 74
2017 National Capital Region 23 79

Question 68d. Please indicate which of the following pay or other compensation issues you have experienced: Incorrect or missing acting pay, overtime pay or other related extra duty pay

Survey year Demographic
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 48 74
2017 National Capital Region 40 79

Question 68e. Please indicate which of the following pay or other compensation issues you have experienced: Incorrect or missing pay relating to a disability, maternity, or parental leave

Survey year Demographic
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 4 74
2017 National Capital Region 7 79

Question 68f. Please indicate which of the following pay or other compensation issues you have experienced: Incorrect or missing retroactive pay

Survey year Demographic
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 22 74

Question 68g. Please indicate which of the following pay or other compensation issues you have experienced: Other

Survey year Demographic
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 28 74
2017 National Capital Region 27 79

Question 69. Please estimate the number of hours you have spent, at work or outside of work, attempting to resolve your pay or other compensation issue(s).

Survey year Demographic 0 hours
(%)
1 to 9 hours
(%)
10 to 19 hours
(%)
20 to 29 hours
(%)
30 to 39 hours
(%)
40 hours or more
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 8 53 15 10 0 13 73
2017 National Capital Region 8 67 10 9 1 5 77

Question 70. Have all your pay or other compensation issues been resolved?

Survey year Demographic Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 60 40 74

Question 73. To what extent have issues with the Phoenix pay system affected your decision to seek or accept another position (e.g., deployment, promotion, secondment, assignment, acting assignment) within your organization or the federal public service?

Survey year Demographic Not at all
(%)
To a small extent
(%)
To a moderate extent
(%)
To a large extent
(%)
To a very large extent
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 40 15 17 9 9 1 8 61 20 110

Support to resolve pay or other compensation issues

Question 71. I am satisfied with the support (e.g., regular information, follow-up, making enquiries on my behalf, offering emergency or priority pay) I received from my department or agency to help resolve my pay or other compensation issues.

Survey year Demographic Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 51 31 5 3 3 1 5 88 6 74
2017 National Capital Region 36 31 10 11 5 1 6 72 17 79

Question 72. I am satisfied with the support I received from the Pay Centre to help resolve my pay or other compensation issues.

Survey year Demographic Strongly agree
(%)
Somewhat agree
(%)
Neither agree nor disagree
(%)
Somewhat disagree
(%)
Strongly disagree
(%)
Don't know
(%)
Not applicable
(%)
Positive answers
(%)
Negative answers
(%)
Total responses
2018 National Capital Region 8 4 8 9 21 8 41 24 60 74
2017 National Capital Region 9 9 9 4 10 7 51 43 35 79
Date modified: