Staff Appraisals

Employers should conduct regular staff appraisals to discuss employee
performance, goal-setting and development needs. Appraisals also provide a good opportunity for an open discussion about employee’s goals and future hopes, while retaining a formal structure to build on.

As preparation for an appraisal, ensure you provide your employees with ample notice before the day, and allow at least one hour per employee. Encourage employees to think of areas they would like to address, and mention that you would like it to be a two-way discussion.

During the appraisal, highlight positive behaviour and performance, using specific examples to illustrate your point. It is important to discuss positives, as well as areas of improvement. If an individual does have areas of improvement, work through these by discussing development needs and ways to obtain support or further training.

Keep notes of your discussion, as well as action plans which you can refer to regularly.

Just a few final reminders to ensure success in your staff appraisals:

• Does HR have a set procedure in place that you can use?
• Find a time and place in the office that will suit both you and the individual
• Create action plans and timeframes with the employee that suits both of your needs
• Listen as much as you talk
• Record the discussion and all outcomes. Refer to it regularly with the employee to ensure plans are being adhered to.