What is Performance Review
A performance review, also known as a performance appraisal, employee evaluation, or development discussion, is a formal assessment of an employee's work performance over a specific period. It's typically conducted by their manager and involves discussions about achievements, areas for improvement, and setting goals for the future.
Here are some key aspects of performance reviews:
Purpose
- Provide feedback: Employees receive structured feedback on their performance, strengths, and weaknesses.
- Identify progress and development needs: Evaluates progress towards objectives and determines areas where the employee can enhance their skills and knowledge.
- Set future goals: Establishes new goals and objectives for the employee to work towards in the next evaluation period.
- Align performance with company goals: Ensures individual performance aligns with broader company strategies and objectives.
- Inform compensation and promotion decisions: Performance reviews often play a role in determining salary adjustments, bonuses, and promotion opportunities.
How it works
- Frequency: Evaluations can be conducted annually, twice a year, or even more frequently, depending on the company and position.
- Process: Typically involves self-assessment by the employee, followed by a meeting with their manager to discuss feedback and goals.
- Metrics: Performance is assessed based on pre-defined criteria specific to the role and responsibilities. These might include productivity, quality of work, teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills.
- Outcomes: The evaluation results in a documented report summarizing the employee's performance, feedback, and future goals.
Benefits
- Improved performance: Regular feedback and goal setting can motivate employees to improve their performance.
- Increased engagement: Open communication and clear expectations can boost employee engagement and satisfaction.
- Better alignment: Aligning individual goals with company objectives creates a more focused and effective workforce.
- Talent development: Identifying development needs helps employees build their skills and stay competitive.
- Fair compensation and promotion: Evaluations provide a basis for fair and objective decisions about compensation and career advancement.