Tips to improve the superior-subordinate appraisal process

Appraisals are crucial to track and monitor employee performance, justify incentives and align towards organization’s goals.

Appraiser (Supervisor)

1. Be Gradual

Monitor and feedback to employees consistently. Reduce the surprises they will get from just one appraisal session.

2. Counter Balance

Cheerlead them for their efforts, but also talk about
their shortcomings.

3. People Development

Make effort to develop strengths & improve weaknesses.

4. Consult

Ask if individuals want to contribute in areas they are strong in.

5. Automnomy

Ask for opinions and respect their choices.

6. Be Tactful

Be sensitive of the underlying messages that will bring to individuals.

7. Build Relationships

Build relationships outside the premise of work.

8. Outside Office

Check in with employees outside company premise,
makes it more personal and relaxed.

9. "We"

Use “we” instead of you. Conveys a team collaborative notion and attitude.

Appraisee (Employee)

1. Listen

Listen and understand the context, do not get defensive.

2. Open Mind

Go in with an open mind to see discussion as something useful for the career at large.

3. Team

Remember that your appraiser is also your colleague and team mate.

4. Don't be shy

Ask questions and talk things without fear of being reprimanded.

5. Understand the Question

Take time to understand before answering defensively (you are not walking into a bargaining situation).

6. Opportunities

Ask for chances for personal and career development, it shows good attitude and enthusiasm.

7. Contribute

Look at the areas that you can positively contribute based on your strengths.

8. Negative Comments

Listen, understand and clarify, always look at the comments from a problem solving angle.

9. Reflect

Take back valid points and be self reflective upon them.

10. Bring up issues anytime

Feel free to highlight issues anytime and not just during the appraisal period.