The Benefits of a Performance Management System
Having a Performance Management System in place means communication about performance and goals is happening at regular intervals to ensure expectations and guidelines are clearly set and pursued. Often times these are done in relation to KPI’s or other measurements that are potentially tied to a performance bonus.
The biggest downfall of a performance management system can be that Managers wait until the (often annual) performance review to give feedback, positive or constructive, to employees.
Ideally, during a documented performance review, no new information about how an individual’s work is measuring up should be discussed. In other words, there should be no surprises. Communication should already be happening about how an individual's performance is perceived prior to the review. The annual performance review shouldn’t blindside an employee. Check out our favourite performance and development questions that you can use on an ongoing basis to facilitate performance conversations.
The ongoing communication about performance, positive and constructive, is what will drive employee engagement as well as motivation. Without that continual communication, the employee review system becomes something to be feared rather than just another aspect of the communication process. When employees fear performance reviews, it’s because they haven't had regular and consistent 2 - way communication with their manager.
What happens when there hasn’t been consistent communication about performance and the appraisal time is approaching? Should the constructive feedback be pushed off further?
No. But...
Follow these conversation tips when communicating *new* constructive feedback in a performance review:
- Communicate the improvements that need to be made.
- Apologize if the information comes new to them. Take responsibility for the lack of feedback to this point.
- Promise to hold yourself accountable to providing regular follow-up going forward to ensure their success.
Whether feedback is positive or constructive, employees are looking for nuggets of information so they can be better individuals within the workplace as well as within society. This feedback is crucial to your employee’s success and business success.
If you struggle with performance reviews, check out the tips here.
If you would like further information on our services of managerial coaching, contact us today!
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