Not looked forward to but worth the effort and input with loads of hidden benefits!
When we floss our teeth we do not enjoy the process much, it requires getting into some detail, dealing with hidden spots and challenges, yet the outcome can be more than just top line removal of plaque. Performance appraisals can set a good plan and path moving forward and clear out unspoken challenges, misconceptions and grievances that may have been lurking and held back by employees. Good performance appraisals also allow a platform for smart review of past performance and strategic talent mapping.
Performance reviews should be a DATE –
Defined and documented, have set expectations of what will be discussed, past and future performance, team environment, support required, what management needs to stop, start and continue doing. Documented for clear review every six months.
Adventurous- prepared to face the truth, open, transparent and challenge the status quo.
Timely – the key to a great performance review is keep them timely (best every six months as 12 months is too long to have to turn around and steer direction).
Encouraging – we all know that human beings respond best to a carrot rather than a stick. As a mother, I have observed how kids close down to too much negative feedback but thrive on positive input and encouragement. You can not be false and gushy as everyone knows when feedback is authentic and recent studies show that the old “sandwich” feedback process is not so powerful anymore as people become sceptical of the good feedback – feeling it is tokenism. Empathise –make time to talk about them as a person. What are their personal aspirations that they want to share, this will build a deeper understanding for managing and getting the best out of them. Show an interest in their whole life goals and how they can achieve them.
However acknowledge the good and the bad in a pragmatic and respectful way – share empathy and insights around yourself and how you tackled challenges like this in the past. Give them insights into how you tackled such challenges, show them that you have walked that path as well. It is well known that great leaders show empathy to the journey of a subordinate. They deeply listen and stretch people beyond what they think they are capable of.
For more information contact Simone Allan, Director at Mondo Search on 1300 737 917 or email simone@mondosearch.com.au.