Performance Appraisals

3. Manager's Preparation

Prepare a plan for the appraisal meeting.

3.1 Review the employee's completed self-assessment questionnaire.

• Identify the important issues and focus the appraisal on them.

3.2 Review the performance appraisal report which was written following the previous appraisal (see 6).

• Note which objectives have - and have not - been achieved.

3.3 Think about the big picture, as well as operational issues.

• For example, the career opportunities (or training opportunities) that are open to the employee.

3.4 Work out your objectives for the appraisal.

• For example, if there is no opportunity for promotion, your goal may be to maintain the employee's commitment and motivation.
• Deal with any recent one-off problems before the appraisal.

3.5 Have examples (or other evidence) ready to back up the points you wish to make.

This shows the employee that your concern is a reasonable one.

3.6 Write down your meeting plan for the appraisal (see 4).

• The less you have worked directly with the employee, the more effort you need to put into the preparation stage. For example, you may need to seek feedback from other people.