§541.105 Particular weight.

To determine whether an employee�s suggestions and recommendations are given �particular weight,� factors to be considered include, but are not limited to, whether it is part of the employee�s job duties to make such suggestions and recommendations; the frequency with which such suggestions and recommendations are made or requested; and the frequency with which the employee�s suggestions and recommendations are relied upon. Generally, an executive�s suggestions and recommendations must pertain to employees whom the executive customarily and regularly directs. It does not include an occasional suggestion with regard to the change in status of a co-worker. An employee�s suggestions and recommendations may still be deemed to have �particular weight� even if a higher level manager�s recommendation has more importance and even if the employee does not have authority to make the ultimate decision as to the employee�s change in status.