2018 Public Service Employee Survey Results by Theme for Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada by Question 90. What is your sexual orientation?

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 Heterosexual 39 46 8 4 3 0 0 84 8 90
2018 Prefer not to answer 32 44 4 12 8 0 0 76 20 25

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 Heterosexual 41 38 5 10 6 0 0 79 16 90
2018 Prefer not to answer 39 40 0 12 8 0 0 80 20 25

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 Heterosexual 54 36 6 3 1 0 0 90 4 90
2018 Prefer not to answer 35 52 4 4 4 0 0 88 8 25

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 Heterosexual 51 34 11 3 1 0 0 84 4 89
2018 Prefer not to answer 36 44 8 8 4 0 0 80 12 25

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 Heterosexual 51 31 11 5 1 0 0 82 7 90
2018 Prefer not to answer 47 20 17 8 8 0 0 67 16 25

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 Heterosexual 46 35 13 5 1 0 0 81 6 89
2018 Prefer not to answer 43 28 12 8 8 0 0 72 16 25

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 Heterosexual 43 27 16 7 4 3 0 72 11 90
2018 Prefer not to answer 28 20 28 16 8 0 0 48 24 25
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 Heterosexual 54 29 12 2 1 1 0 84 3 89
2018 Prefer not to answer 60 23 13 0 4 0 0 83 4 25

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 Heterosexual 48 33 6 10 3 0 0 81 13 89
2018 Prefer not to answer 56 23 8 4 8 0 0 80 12 25

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 Heterosexual 54 27 11 4 3 0 0 81 8 89
2018 Prefer not to answer 52 24 8 13 4 0 0 76 17 25

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 Heterosexual 50 31 8 2 5 3 0 84 8 90
2018 Prefer not to answer 51 24 8 12 4 0 0 75 17 25

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 Heterosexual 49 32 9 4 5 0 0 81 10 90
2018 Prefer not to answer 36 31 8 20 4 0 0 67 25 25

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 Heterosexual 29 42 13 7 7 2 0 73 14 90
2018 Prefer not to answer 16 43 8 33 0 0 0 59 33 25

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 Heterosexual 29 43 8 14 4 1 0 73 19 90
2018 Prefer not to answer 20 40 12 17 4 8 0 65 23 25
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 Heterosexual 37 37 9 6 11 0 0 74 17 89
2018 Prefer not to answer 28 48 4 17 4 0 0 76 20 25

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 Heterosexual 38 41 10 6 6 0 0 78 11 88
2018 Prefer not to answer 31 40 12 13 4 0 0 71 17 25

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 Heterosexual 15 25 20 11 9 15 6 49 25 89
2018 Prefer not to answer 12 12 18 25 8 25 0 33 44 24

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 Heterosexual 46 30 9 10 4 0 0 76 15 89
2018 Prefer not to answer 52 24 12 8 4 0 0 76 12 25

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
2018 Heterosexual 36 44 8 4 0 4 4 87 4 25

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 Heterosexual 41 38 9 10 2 0 0 79 12 90
2018 Prefer not to answer 28 47 4 21 0 0 0 75 21 25

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 Heterosexual 50 37 8 3 2 0 0 87 5 90
2018 Prefer not to answer 56 28 4 12 0 0 0 84 12 25

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 Heterosexual 60 32 4 2 1 0 0 92 3 90
2018 Prefer not to answer 46 38 4 13 0 0 0 83 13 24

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 Heterosexual 35 31 15 8 9 2 0 68 17 89
2018 Prefer not to answer 20 31 8 25 8 8 0 56 36 25

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 Heterosexual 22 24 10 20 21 1 1 48 42 90
2018 Prefer not to answer 12 19 13 16 28 8 4 35 50 25

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 Heterosexual 34 43 12 9 1 0 0 77 10 90
2018 Prefer not to answer 23 52 13 8 4 0 0 75 12 25

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 Heterosexual 42 37 9 7 4 1 0 80 11 90
2018 Prefer not to answer 27 36 12 20 4 0 0 63 24 25

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 Heterosexual 39 38 11 9 3 0 0 77 12 90
2018 Prefer not to answer 24 44 16 12 4 0 0 68 17 25

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 Heterosexual 38 40 13 4 3 1 0 79 8 90
2018 Prefer not to answer 29 33 17 9 8 4 0 64 18 24

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 Heterosexual 51 35 3 7 2 0 1 88 9 90
2018 Prefer not to answer 36 32 16 12 0 0 4 70 13 25

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 Heterosexual 29 30 23 9 8 0 0 60 17 89
2018 Prefer not to answer 20 28 32 20 0 0 0 48 20 25

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 Heterosexual 25 41 34 90
2018 Prefer not to answer 36 24 40 25

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 Heterosexual 4 13 65 13 4 0 23
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 Heterosexual 53 41 6 0 0 0 0 94 0 90
2018 Prefer not to answer 47 36 0 12 4 0 0 83 17 25

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 Heterosexual 55 34 9 2 0 0 0 89 2 90
2018 Prefer not to answer 32 52 8 0 4 4 0 88 4 25

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 Heterosexual 11 13 42 25 8 0 1 33 25 90
2018 Prefer not to answer 4 32 39 17 4 0 4 21 38 25

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 Heterosexual 3 13 27 32 20 0 3 54 17 90
2018 Prefer not to answer 4 8 36 28 16 4 4 48 13 25

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 Heterosexual 10 13 28 30 15 1 2 47 24 90
2018 Prefer not to answer 8 28 28 24 8 0 4 33 38 25

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 Heterosexual 3 12 29 39 14 0 2 55 16 90
2018 Prefer not to answer 4 20 36 20 16 0 4 38 25 25

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 Heterosexual 18 20 25 22 10 1 4 34 40 90
2018 Prefer not to answer 28 28 20 12 4 4 4 18 61 25

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 Heterosexual 6 14 36 33 8 2 1 42 21 89
2018 Prefer not to answer 12 20 28 8 20 4 8 32 36 25

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 Heterosexual 7 15 29 38 9 0 2 48 22 89
2018 Prefer not to answer 12 24 28 20 12 0 4 33 38 25

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 Heterosexual 45 33 5 9 7 2 0 79 16 89
2018 Prefer not to answer 30 17 26 18 5 4 0 49 24 23

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 Heterosexual 53 33 7 4 3 0 0 85 8 89
2018 Prefer not to answer 41 42 12 4 0 0 0 83 4 24

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 Heterosexual 53 30 10 6 1 0 0 83 7 87
2018 Prefer not to answer 37 46 13 4 0 0 0 83 4 24

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 Heterosexual 39 37 12 7 1 3 0 79 8 89
2018 Prefer not to answer 47 28 17 4 0 4 0 78 4 25

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 Heterosexual 38 49 8 2 1 1 0 89 3 89
2018 Prefer not to answer 43 28 21 8 0 0 0 71 8 25

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 Heterosexual 60 31 7 1 1 0 0 91 2 90
2018 Prefer not to answer 59 24 12 4 0 0 0 83 4 25

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 Heterosexual 30 30 13 10 5 7 4 68 17 89
2018 Prefer not to answer 21 24 13 21 4 12 4 54 31 24

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 Heterosexual 38 40 9 3 3 5 1 83 7 89
2018 Prefer not to answer 47 36 8 8 0 0 0 83 8 25

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 Heterosexual 38 41 13 2 4 1 0 80 7 90
2018 Prefer not to answer 51 28 17 0 0 4 0 83 0 25

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 Heterosexual 20 30 18 11 7 11 3 59 21 90
2018 Prefer not to answer 28 16 21 12 8 16 0 52 24 25

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 Heterosexual 8 92 88

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 Heterosexual 19 19 19 2 4 29 8 60 10 90
2018 Prefer not to answer 12 12 24 4 4 39 4 42 15 25

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 Heterosexual 23 40 22 0 3 11 0 71 4 90
2018 Prefer not to answer 28 20 17 16 0 20 0 59 20 25

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 Heterosexual 7 93 90
2018 Prefer not to answer 0 100 25

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 Heterosexual 16 18 17 2 2 38 8 61 8 90
2018 Prefer not to answer 16 4 24 0 0 48 8 45 0 25

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 Heterosexual 21 39 20 2 2 16 0 71 5 90
2018 Prefer not to answer 32 16 20 4 0 28 0 66 5 25
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 Heterosexual 56 28 9 2 3 1 0 85 6 89
2018 Prefer not to answer 64 16 4 8 8 0 0 80 17 25

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 Heterosexual 55 37 4 3 0 0 0 92 3 90
2018 Prefer not to answer 75 16 8 0 0 0 0 92 0 25

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 Heterosexual 31 41 17 7 2 2 0 74 9 90
2018 Prefer not to answer 36 31 8 12 8 0 4 70 21 25

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 Heterosexual 46 26 13 7 9 0 0 71 15 90
2018 Prefer not to answer 29 39 20 4 8 0 0 68 12 25

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 Heterosexual 16 27 26 21 9 0 1 43 31 89
2018 Prefer not to answer 4 16 32 20 28 0 0 20 48 25

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 Heterosexual 21 37 24 9 8 0 1 59 17 90
2018 Prefer not to answer 16 24 28 16 12 0 4 42 29 25

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 Heterosexual 19 21 21 20 17 0 2 41 37 90
2018 Prefer not to answer 0 20 24 28 28 0 0 20 56 25

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 Heterosexual 45 27 12 8 4 0 3 75 13 90
2018 Prefer not to answer 28 40 12 16 0 0 4 71 16 25

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 Heterosexual 31 26 21 17 3 0 1 58 20 90
2018 Prefer not to answer 16 32 28 16 4 0 4 50 21 25

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 Heterosexual 32 39 23 4 2 0 0 71 7 88
2018 Prefer not to answer 20 32 33 12 4 0 0 51 16 25

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 Heterosexual 31 33 16 11 8 0 1 65 19 88
2018 Prefer not to answer 24 28 16 24 4 0 4 54 29 25

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 Heterosexual 26 41 19 9 3 0 1 68 13 88
2018 Prefer not to answer 31 28 13 20 8 0 0 59 28 25

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 Heterosexual 35 32 15 11 5 1 1 69 16 88
2018 Prefer not to answer 28 12 36 20 4 0 0 40 24 25

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 Heterosexual 62 15 12 7 3 0 0 77 10 88
2018 Prefer not to answer 52 16 12 12 8 0 0 67 20 25

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 Heterosexual 82 8 1 2 1 1 5 95 4 87
2018 Prefer not to answer 68 12 8 8 0 0 4 83 8 25

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 Heterosexual 78 11 2 3 1 1 2 93 5 88
2018 Prefer not to answer 71 12 4 4 0 4 4 91 5 25

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 Heterosexual 56 28 9 3 0 1 2 87 4 88
2018 Prefer not to answer 61 19 8 4 0 0 8 87 4 25

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 Heterosexual 56 26 7 3 6 0 2 84 9 88
2018 Prefer not to answer 60 12 12 12 0 0 4 75 13 25

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 Heterosexual 53 14 5 1 1 0 26 91 3 87
2018 Prefer not to answer 59 8 8 0 0 0 25 89 0 24

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 Heterosexual 64 17 11 2 1 0 3 85 4 87
2018 Prefer not to answer 80 0 8 4 0 0 8 87 4 25

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 Heterosexual 83 5 7 1 0 1 3 92 1 88
2018 Prefer not to answer 72 4 4 4 8 0 8 82 13 25

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 Heterosexual 45 38 10 2 1 0 3 86 4 88
2018 Prefer not to answer 61 24 4 0 4 0 8 92 4 25

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 Heterosexual 12 29 35 16 8 0 0 41 24 90
2018 Prefer not to answer 16 28 24 28 4 0 0 44 32 25

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 Heterosexual 11 19 27 32 10 0 0 43 30 89
2018 Prefer not to answer 8 36 29 16 12 0 0 28 43 25
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 Heterosexual 35 33 15 6 8 3 0 37 63 90
2018 Prefer not to answer 33 35 16 8 8 0 0 33 67 25

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 Heterosexual 37 55
2018 Prefer not to answer 29 17

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 Heterosexual 32 55
2018 Prefer not to answer 29 17

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 Heterosexual 24 55
2018 Prefer not to answer 29 17

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 Heterosexual 43 55
2018 Prefer not to answer 58 17

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 Heterosexual 5 55
2018 Prefer not to answer 0 17

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 Heterosexual 22 55
2018 Prefer not to answer 29 17

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

Survey year Demographic
(%)
Total responses
2018 Heterosexual 25 55
2018 Prefer not to answer 35 17

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 Heterosexual 11 55 13 7 0 14 55
2018 Prefer not to answer 6 56 19 7 0 12 16

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

Survey year Demographic Yes
(%)
No
(%)
Total responses
2018 Heterosexual 60 40 55
2018 Prefer not to answer 47 53 17

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 Heterosexual 46 16 14 8 7 0 9 68 16 87
2018 Prefer not to answer 33 12 16 16 16 4 4 49 35 25

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 Heterosexual 49 31 9 0 5 0 5 85 6 55
2018 Prefer not to answer 59 17 12 0 0 6 6 86 0 17

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 Heterosexual 7 4 9 9 20 9 42 23 59 55
2018 Prefer not to answer 12 0 12 6 23 12 35 22 55 17
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