Most federal employees don’t spend much time thinking about employment law until they have to. Make your paper trail while the sun shinesSouthworth recommends that every federal employee keep copies of important employment documents throughout their career, not just when trouble starts. Know your rights before you need themWhether discussing workplace investigations, whistleblower protections, or common misconceptions about federal employment, one theme kept resurfacing: preparation beats panic. Federal employees should remember two things above all else, Southworth says; “watch your paper and watch your clock.” The legal system provides important protections, but they’re most effective when they’re understood before they’re relied upon.