In many organizations, both management and employees view employee evaluations negatively. Managers feel as though they are being forced to judge those reporting to them, and employees fear their performance being criticized.
Despite the negative perceptions surrounding performance evaluations, they can be highly effective for improving team cohesiveness, developing employees and clarifying expectations. This article provides a more detailed look at the purpose behind employee evaluations and how managers and employers can optimize them.
What is the Purpose of Employee Evaluations?
When prepared and carried out correctly, employee evaluations can provide numerous benefits; such as:
Setting goals, outcomes or outputs for the employee
Unclear performance expectations can lead to a lack of motivation and disengagement in an employee. Employers or managers should allocate a portion of the performance evaluation to defining directions and objectives for the employee; and clarifying how these objectives tie into the bigger picture of the employee’s team and the company.
Furthermore, clear targets help the employee understand the expectations for them, and can motivate them to go further than the set target to achieve greater reward.
Developing the employee and simultaneously improving the organization
Regular performance evaluations highlight areas where improvement has occurred and areas where improvement is necessary. This allows the manager and the employee to develop a strategy for ongoing success and skill development. Employee development also tends to increase employee retention and motivation, as the individual can see that the company is invested in them.
Establishing legal and visible evidence that employees are included in the understanding of their jobs and performance.
Regular performance evaluations accumulate to make a portfolio of an employee’s work experience and track their development with the company. They are also a great form of evidence, for employers to prove that they are taking the appropriate steps to ensure each employee is clear on what is expected of them.
Maximizing Employee Evaluations in Your Company
Below, are helpful tips that employers can use to make their employee performance evaluations as beneficial as possible:
Offer 360-Degree Feedback
This form of feedback is a great way to provide a more thorough view of how effective the employee is in their role. 360-degree feedback involves receiving feedback not only from the boss, but fellow coworkers and potentially any staff reporting to the individual.
When asking for the feedback of others, it is best to develop a format in which others can provide their feedback. This adds more structure to the feedback process and helps ensure the employee being evaluated receives solid feedback.
Properly Prepare
A great way for managers to communicate their respect and appreciation for each employee reporting to them, is to come prepared. Preparation demonstrates to the employee that their time is valuable, and they are a respected member of the company.
Furthermore, preparation helps you determine the best approach to take and ensure you know the key points you want to address in the meeting.
Determine Your Intention
With performance evaluations, intention is everything. Great managers will genuinely want to see the employee thrive in their position and set them up for future success.
When the individual being evaluated sees you bring a spirit of encouragement to the meeting, it demonstrates the confidence you have in their abilities.
Need more advice on employee performance evaluations?
Speak with our HR experts to get advice on conducting employee performance evaluations. Contact us today to get answers to any employment-related questions: 1 (833) 247-3652.
