Employee Advocate Program

The Employee Advocate Program, administered by the Employees' Advisory Council (EAC), assists employees in dispute resolution. The goal of the program is to come to a resolution that is beneficial to both parties. A volunteer chosen for the program must have a high degree of tact and diplomacy plus an ability to relate professionally in diverse situations and circumstances as needed.

How to Request an Advocate's Assistance:

Some employees who are facing disciplinary meetings or who initiate grievances feel they need someone to help them present their viewpoint.
Employee Advocates provide assistance to other employees with disciplinary hearings or grievances and have authorization from their departments to spend a reasonable amount of work time for this purpose.
To request assistance from an Advocate, call Human Resources at (727) 464-3506. Human Resources staff take a neutral position and can help guide both parties through the process, but staff are not allowed to advise or be with an employee or manager during Personnel Board meetings.

How to Become an Advocate

Employees wishing to become an Advocate may apply, and if selected, may assist follow employees in the following manner: over the phone, through email and/or in person. If you are interested:

Read the Employee Advocate Procedures
Complete the application
Interview with the EAC’s Employee Advocate Advisory Committee
Complete training and shadow with an experienced Advocate

Why Be an Advocate?

Help your fellow employees
Learn more about your Pinellas County Government
Develop/utilize improved communication skills
Sharpen your organizational talents
Become a good time manager
Develop your public speaking abilities
Be recognized as a professional leader who cares about our organization
Network with other County employees

Requirements for an Advocate:

Minimum requirements along with the knowledge, skills, and abilities to become an Advocate are listed below:

Full-time County employee with Pinellas County Government with a minimum 5 years of service (may be waived based on experience)
Classified employee (may be a supervisor but may not be an exempt employee)
Not be a probationary status employee
Not have an active disciplinary action or grievance in progress
Approval/authorization of your supervisor

Advocate Time

While serving as an Advocate, you will be paid for time spent away from your job during normal working hours and participation must be approved by your supervisor. Time spent as an Advocate should not exceed 3 hours a week during County work time.
It may be necessary for Advocates to perform these voluntary services outside their normal work hours. Advocates receive no additional compensation for their efforts.