Q&A Performance and Conduct
Q: What are the qualifications to be on the EEI Communications roster?
A: We require at least two years of recent related professional experience. Background in one of our areas of specialization (government proposals, management, computers, education, economics, public health) is very helpful. High-quality work samples and strong professional references are often required. We test and interview all qualified applicants before adding them to our roster.
Q: How do I get assignments from EEI Communications?
A: When we get a job that requires your skills and that appears to fit your schedule, your EEI Communications staffing account manager will call and ask if you want to work on the project. You will be given all facts and information regarding the work, the deadline, and the pay rate.
Q: Does being on the EEI Communications roster guarantee me assignments?
A: Unfortunately, we cannot promise to get you work or keep you busy on a full- time basis. However, your performance, reliability, flexibility, and skills will provide you with more opportunities for work.
Q: What standards must my work meet?
A: Your work must meet the highest professional standards. This normally means that your project manager and our client must deem your work to have met such standards. Your responsibilities sometimes will include making revisions after your work is reviewed. If we determine your work is inadequate, we will discuss your performance with you, and depending on the circumstances it may result in removal from the roster.
Q: What should I do if the work I'm being asked to do is a higher level than I was assigned to do?
A: Call your EEI Communications Staffing Specialist and explain the situation. If we agree that the work is a higher level, we will speak with the client. Do not approach the client yourself.
Q: How are deadlines set?
A: Deadlines are based on the client's needs and assignments that limit the amount of time reasonably needed to complete the work. IT IS VITAL THAT YOU MEET YOUR DEADLINES. Failure to do so may result in disciplinary action up to and including removal from the roster.
Q: What if I miss a deadline?
A: If you miss a deadline, EEI Communications will probably miss one, too. Your job is usually only one phase of a larger schedule. Missed deadlines hurt our reputation and endanger our contract with our client. Therefore, if you miss a deadline, you may be dropped from the EEI Communications roster.
Q: What if I can't complete an assignment?
A: We hope this situation will not arise; however, even the best-organized worker sometimes runs into a crisis situation. If you find that you will not be able to complete an assignment, contact your EEI Communications staffing account manager at once so that another employee can be assigned. And, unless the reason you did not complete the assignment is an emergency totally beyond your control, you will be dropped from the EEI Communications roster. Again, WE EXPECT YOU TO COMPLETE YOUR ASSIGNMENTS.
Q: What if I am sick or will be late to the client's office?
A: You must call your EEI Communications staffing account manager immediately. You may also choose to call your direct supervisor at the client's site. However, keep in mind that you are required to call EEI. If you are unable to reach your SAM, please have anyone from Staffing Services paged.
Q: What should I do if I run out of work to do while on assignment?
A: Please notify your supervisor immediately. Always ask if there is additional work for you to complete.
Q: Can I turn down an assignment offered to me?
A: Yes, absolutely. If the job offered does not interest you, if the pay is not right, if the timing is bad, or if you have a conflict, then please say no. We especially want you to turn down jobs if there is any risk of your being over- committed and missing a deadline. In general, turning down jobs will not limit your chances of being offered others later on. However, frequently turning down assignments does impact EEI's ability to meet our client needs in an efficient manner. Excessive situations will lead to a performance discussion with your SAM and could lead to removal from the roster.
Q: Do I pay a fee for being on the EEI Communications roster?
A: No. Our rates to clients cover all our administrative expenses.
Q: If I work for EEI Communications, may I still take on other freelance assignments?
A: Yes. If you are on the roster, you are free to solicit and carry out other freelance assignments that do not pose a conflict of interest with EEI. You may not accept work from EEI clients for whom you work or worked and met through EEI. This restriction remains in effect for one year from the date that you last worked for that client as an EEI Communications temporary employee. If a client approaches you about working for them within a year of your working there through EEI Communications, ask the client to call EEI Communications directly to arrange for your services and inform your SAM immediately. Failure to notify EEI and/or accepting work from those clients could result in legal action against you for violation of your noncompete agreement with EEI.
Q: Can I call EEI Communications for help with editorial or computer questions?
A: Yes, but first try to get an answer from your on-site supervisor or co-workers. If you still have a question, feel free to call us and we will try to help you. For editorial questions, please call Pat Moran at ext. 250, for desktop- or graphic-related questions, please call Ed Gloninger at ext. 236.
Q: How can I move into other areas or types of work at EEI Communications?
A: One of the best ways to expand your skills is by taking advantage of EEI Communications' many training workshops. Many people on our roster started working in one area and moved into other areas through additional training. In fact, many of EEI Communications' managers began their careers here as proofreaders. Also, please remember to update your resume regularly when skills change. In order to move you into other areas, we need to be kept informed of your newly acquired skills.
Q: Does EEI Communications offer services if I am interested in a full-time position?
A: Yes. EEI Communications offers a direct hire option. We continually have client positions available. If you are interested in being considered for a direct hire or temp-to-hire position, please let your staffing account manager know.
Q: What should I do if a client wants to hire me full-time?
A: Ask the client to call your EEI SAM so we can explain the options available to them for hiring you, and immediately inform your SAM.
Q: Why haven't I heard from my Staffing Specialist?
A: We rely heavily on our ability to reach you to offer you assignments; it is important that you have an answering machine, pager, or e-mail address. Our clients are located all over the Washington, DC/Baltimore and Richmond area, so your ability to travel to their offices will increase your range of assignments with us.
