There’s always a lot of discussion around the problem with annual performance reviews. They’re meant to motivate, but too often end up being time consuming and difficult for managers and employees. But since it’s important to set goals and measure performance, how can we make sure performance reviews are motivational and worthwhile?
Here are our 5 keys to driving productivity by improving performance reviews.
Performance happens daily (reviews should too)
You want to get the best from employees, and real-time feedback on accomplishments and challenges gives them the opportunity to grow throughout the year. Then come review time, you can focus on achievements and growth instead of rehashing past challenges. Really useful annual reviews summarize the year, so nothing in them is a surprise or a reason to worry.
Reviews should be conversations
Everyone should be comfortable discussing performance, so don’t lecture employees in language that only makes sense to HR. Instead, give them clear action steps and information they can use; discuss specific achievements they can be proud of and areas where they can improve. And while we’re at it, use systems that capture your conversation - don’t fall into the trap of only discussing what fits in a box on your form.
Reviews should have a purpose
Why bother with reviews if all you do is fill out a form and file it away? Reviews should collect useful employee performance information that can be put to work for the entire organization. If managers see the value of performance reviews, they’ll get done. And if employees can see positive benefits come from reviews as well, they’ll make a greater effort.
Embrace simplicity and consistency
Simple, frequent reviews will give you a clear, current understanding of what’s happening with your team, and contribute positively to individual engagement. Reviews should be straightforward, allowing you to focus on the person sitting in front of you, not on deciphering the form or translating HR-eze. After all, managing people is hard enough without having to deal with the effects of painfully complicated reviews.
Change the review experience
We’ve all had a bad review experience or two - whether on the giving or receiving end. It does get better though; it’s all in your approach...
Great managers talk about performance every day, giving timely (and useful) feedback to their teams.
Great employees welcome feedback as a source of inspiration, motivation and reassurance.
See how we're helping growing businesses transform the performance review process to drive employee engagement and productivity: csod.com/growth-edition
Related Resources
Want to keep learning? Explore our products, customer stories, and the latest industry insights.
Customer Story
Why Leadership Development is Critical in Higher Ed
Founded over 150 years ago, Davenport University is based in Michigan. It is home to 7,000 students spread across ten campuses throughout the state, including a significant online presence as part of its global campus. Davenport’s Office of Performance Excellence currently has just six employees serving over 600 full- or part-time faculty and staff, plus 600 adjunct faculty.
Blog Post
Is talent experience matching up to employee expectation?
This article was originally published in Laurie Ruettimann's blog in December 2022.
Video
Employee Learning Experience Journey with EdCast LXP
EdCast by Cornerstone Learning Experience Platform (LXP) unifies learning, skill building and career development in the flow of work. From communications and productivity apps in everyday use to functional specific systems, EdCast Learning Experience Platform fosters a culture of learning enabling you to attract, develop and retain high performing talent.