You might have decades of leadership experience, but if your ECQs don’t communicate that the right way, your SES dreams could be over before they even begin. The harsh reality is that many qualified applicants are rejected simply because their Executive Core Qualifications (ECQs) don’t meet OPM’s expectations.
If you’re applying for a Senior Executive Service (SES) position, your Executive Core Qualifications (ECQs) could make or break your application. While many candidates assume their leadership experience speaks for itself, the truth is that poorly written ECQs are one of the biggest reasons applicants fail to make it past the Qualifications Review Board (QRB).
Writing compelling ECQs isn’t just about listing achievements—it’s about demonstrating leadership in a way that aligns with OPM’s expectations. If you’re serious about landing an SES role, here are the biggest mistakes to avoid when writing your ECQs.
1. Being Too Vague or General
One of the most common mistakes in ECQ writing is failing to provide specific, detailed examples. Saying you “led a major organizational change” doesn’t mean much unless you show how you did it, the challenges involved, and the results you achieved.
Solution: Use the Challenge-Context-Action-Result (CCAR) model to structure each ECQ. Clearly outline the situation, your leadership actions, and measurable results. Need an example? Check out our detailed guide on how to write ECQs that get results.
2. Ignoring the New ECQ Updates for 2025
As of July 1, 2025, OPM is implementing updates to the ECQs, refining key competencies and renaming some categories. If you’re still using outdated ECQs, you might not be addressing what hiring officials are now looking for.
Solution: Familiarize yourself with the latest ECQ changes directly from the OPM website. If you’re not sure how to adjust your ECQs to meet these new requirements, we break it down in our ECQ update blog.
3. Failing to Showcase Leadership at the Right Level
SES roles require you to demonstrate enterprise-level leadership—meaning your impact should extend beyond your department or team. Many applicants focus too much on technical expertise rather than showcasing how they drive large-scale change across an entire organization.
Solution: Your ECQs should reflect leadership that impacts policy, strategy, and government-wide initiatives. Need help aligning your resume with SES expectations? Our executive resume guidelines break it all down.
4. Not Tailoring ECQs to the Specific SES Role
A generic, one-size-fits-all approach won’t cut it. Your ECQs should be customized to reflect the specific SES position you’re applying for.
Solution: Review the job announcement carefully and highlight key themes and competencies that the agency values. This ensures your ECQs resonate with hiring officials. The U.S. Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB) offers insights into federal hiring best practices.
5. Writing Like a Resume Instead of a Narrative
Your ECQs shouldn’t read like a bullet-point list of responsibilities. Instead, they should tell a compelling leadership story. The language should draw the reader in. The narratives need to be written in first person past tense.
Solution: Write in the first person without using “I” too frequently and focus on storytelling that brings your leadership journey to life. Need help structuring your responses? Book a consultation with us, and we’ll refine your ECQs for maximum impact.
Final Thoughts: Get Your ECQs Right the First Time
Your Executive Core Qualifications (ECQs) are one of the most critical components of your SES application. Making these mistakes can cost you the opportunity—but if you get them right, they can set you apart from the competition and secure your SES role.
If you’re serious about your executive job search, don’t leave your ECQs to chance. Let’s work together to craft ECQs that make an impact.
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