Constructive Appraisals Require Engagement (CARE) requires preparation. Here are some tips to help make the most from the performance appraisal meeting:
- Be prepared - know the objectives and goals of the meeting
- Time and place - choose a quiet, private spot without interruption
- Conducting the meeting
- Create a positive environment and help the employee feel at ease.
- Give balanced feedback, both positive and negative, but start with the positive
- Focus on the job, not the person.
- Ask questions and allow the employee to provide feedback.
- When discussing areas for improvement, discuss methods and objectives for improving.
- Discuss possibilities for advancement, the employee's aspirations and professional development necessary to be a candidate for such future positions (See Professional Development section for more details)
- Conclusion
- Summarize and review the important points of the discussion.
- Restate the action steps recommended and provide a time frame for completion.
- Make sure employee reviews the appraisal and provides comments.
- Have employee sign it to acknowledge that he or she has read it (does not signify agreement with the content).
- Give the employee a copy of the appraisal, keep a copy for yourself and forward the original to Human Resources.
- Follow-up
- Follow-up with the employee to see how plans are proceeding within the given time frames.
- Offer the employee assistance in achieving objectives and encourage discussion of successes and obstacles.