Big Changes (or Not?) to the ECQs: What You Need to Know Before July 2025

If you’re an aspiring Senior Executive Service (SES) candidate, you probably already know that crafting your ECQs (Executive Core Qualifications) is one of the most challenging parts of the application process. Well, there’s news—big news, kind of. The U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) is updating the ECQs for the first time in over 15 years, and the changes officially take effect on July 1, 2025.

But before you panic, let’s break it down. This isn’t a complete overhaul. You’re still writing the same ECQs, but OPM has fine-tuned them, changing some titles, shifting a few keywords, and adding a bit more structure. In other words, if you’re already familiar with the current ECQs, these updates will feel more like a refresh than a total rewrite.

Decoding the ECQ Revisions

The updated ECQs still revolve around five core areas, but some names have changed for better clarity, and a few competencies have been reorganized. Here’s what’s new:

1. Leading Change – Now includes Systems Thinking and renames Flexibility to Agility.

2. Leading People – Adds emphasis on Building Workplace Culture and renames key areas, like Conflict Management (now Managing Conflict) and Leveraging Diversity (now Fostering Diversity).

3. Driving Results (formerly Results Driven) – Adds Data Literacy to the mix.

4. Achieving Organizational Success (formerly Business Acumen) – Keeps most of the same elements but with updated wording.

5. Building Coalitions – Adds Strategic Communication, reinforcing the importance of clear messaging.

   
   

For the full list of official updates from OPM, check out the OPM Memo on ECQ Updates.

Why These Changes Matter

If you’re applying for an SES role, you now have an exact playbook for what OPM wants to see in your application. They’re spelling it out—literally. They’ve refined the language, clarified expectations, and made it easier to align your experience with their framework.

This means if you follow these rules to the letter, your chances of getting through the initial

screening process go up dramatically—assuming, of course, that you’re actually qualified for the role. The biggest mistake people make is failing to tailor their ECQs properly. With this new guidance, there’s no excuse.

Want to know if your ECQs are on the right track? I can help. Check out my SES Resume Writing Services for expert assistance in crafting powerful ECQs that get results.

My Take: It’s More of a Tune-Up Than a Transformation

Honestly? These changes feel more like an update than a total shift. Yes, the names have changed, and yes, there are some new keywords and competencies, but at the core, you’re still writing the same ECQs. OPM has just made things clearer and a little more structured.

What this means for you:✔ If you already have ECQs written, you won’t need to start from scratch—just tweak and adjust.✔ If you’re new to the process, this is actually great news because OPM has laid out exactly what they want, making it easier to hit the mark.

How to Prepare for the Switch

With the changes going into effect in July 2025, now is the perfect time to get ahead. Here’s what I recommend:✔ Familiarize yourself with the new structure—don’t wait until the last minute to understand the shifts.✔ Work with an expert (like me!) to ensure your ECQs match OPM’s updated expectations.✔ Start reviewing and refining your ECQs now, so you’re not scrambling when the changes become official.

At the end of the day, the SES hiring process is still as competitive as ever. But if you take the time to understand these changes and write your ECQs the way OPM wants them, you’ll have a much better shot at landing that executive role.

Need help navigating these updates? I’ve helped countless SES candidates craft winning ECQs, and I’d love to help you do the same! Book a consultation and let’s make sure your ECQs are ready for 2025!

For more details on the SES application process and requirements, visit the OPM SES website.