Representative Donna Shalala (D-FL)

Representative Adrian Smith (R-NE)

Representative Donna Shalala (D-FL)

The office of Rep. Donna Shalala fosters a welcome and positive office environment; all staff members have regular access to the Member. The staff is 70% bilingual, and roughly half of the staff are female. The office provides 12 weeks of paid family leave, 20-day leave policy, 5 sick days as well as 5 days for bereavement leave. The office has a comprehensive annual review process that includes a self-evaluation component and a sit-down meeting between each staffer and their supervisor. The office encourages professional development, and sent their Staff Assistant and Scheduler to a two-day legislative training program last year. The office considers itself a "no drama" zone, handling disagreements in a mature way. Rep. Shalala takes work-life fit seriously, rarely reaching out on weekends, checking on staff when they're ill, and bringing fresh fruit to the office. The office hosts regular staff happy hours, where the Chief pays for the first round or two, celebrates birthdays with cupcakes, participated in the Step Challenge and fielded a team for the ACLI Capital Challenge race last April.

Representative Adrian Smith (R-NE)

The office of Rep. Adrian Smith emphasizes a "Nebraska Nice" approach to their workplace environment, which encourages professional development, staff retention, and work-life fit. Four staff members have been with Rep. Smith since his election in 2007, over half of current staff have been promoted from their original position, and 75% of staffers are originally from Nebraska. With regard to professional development, staff are encouraged to attend training and learning programs as well as educational and networking events related to their legislative portfolios. All staff have weekly one-on-ones with direct supervisors and undergo a mid-year and end-of-year review. The office offers 15 days paid time off, telework options, and comp time for district staff who work weekends. Every intern is provided specific training on office policies and protocols, meets with the Deputy Chief of Staff to learn about office functions, and receives direct training on how to write in the office style. Additionally, interns attend at least one hearing with the Member, have lunch with the Member, and at the end of their time summer interns present why the Member should cosponsor a particular bill. The office recognizes birthdays, plans staff events such as bowling at the White House, and hosts a holiday gift exchange.