Performance evaluations can be a daunting task, especially for companies that have never had a formal process in place.
However, done right, they can be incredibly beneficial for both employees and managers.
This post will cover how to get started with performance reviews, overcome resistance, and make the process a success.
One of the most important aspects of a successful performance review process is to involve employees from the beginning. This means that managers should have open and honest discussions with their teams about what they hope to achieve with performance evaluations, what the process will look like, and how it will benefit everyone involved.
It's also important to allow for input from employees so that the process reflects their needs and preferences as well.
It's natural for employees to feel nervous about a new performance review process, especially if they've never had one before.
Some common concerns include being judged or criticized, feeling like the process is time-consuming, or not seeing the value in it.
To overcome this resistance, managers should explain the benefits of performance evaluations and how they will help everyone grow and develop.
Teams might also be open to the concept of continuous performance reviews that allow for more regular feedback throughout the year without the need for time-consuming annual or bi-annual review surveys and cycles.
When it comes to performance evaluation methods there are a couple of options that companies typically start with: traditional, top-down, manager to report and 360-degree evaluations.
Traditional evaluations are a one-way process where the manager provides feedback to the employee based on their collective input, while 360 evaluations involve feedback from multiple sources, including colleagues, and sometimes the employee themselves.
Both methods have their own pros and cons, and companies should carefully consider which is the best fit for their organization and culture.
Performance evaluations can be a big change, and it's important to provide support to both managers and employees during the process.
Managers should be trained on how to conduct effective evaluations, and employees should be given resources to help them understand the process and avoid pitfalls as well as to help with providing constructive feedback.
It's also important to provide support in the form of regular check-ins and opportunities for feedback and growth.
And for organizations looking for an easy solution, WorkStory is here to help. Our platform is designed to be part of the team's workflow rather than separate from it, making continuous performance evaluations simple and seamless.
Performance evaluations can be a game-changer for growing companies, but they require careful planning and implementation to be successful.
By involving employees in the process, understanding resistance, and providing support, companies can create a positive and productive experience for everyone involved.
So why wait? Start your journey towards a more productive and engaged team today.
