5 tips for employee appraisals as a manager

As a manager, appraisals can be a valuable opportunity to evaluate performance, set goals and develop careers. It can also be a challenging task, especially if you're new to the job or inexperienced in conducting appraisals.

Here are five tips to help you prepare for and conduct a successful conversation with employees:

1. Be prepared: Before entering the conversation, you should have taken the time to evaluate the employee's work and performance. Review the goals you set together in the previous conversation and see if they have been achieved or if there have been any challenges along the way. Think about what you want to achieve from the conversation and have a plan for how you will discuss topics such as performance, skills development and career paths.

2. Be a good listener: Be attentive and curious when the employee is speaking. Ask open-ended questions to encourage discussion and try to avoid interrupting. By being attentive and interested, you show respect and build trust with the employee.

3. Give constructive feedback: Give honest and balanced feedback about your work performance. Avoid criticizing or being too vague in your feedback. Have clear examples of what went well and what can be improved. Focus on measurable results and be specific when giving feedback.

4. Set goals and a development plan: Create a plan together with the employee to achieve the goals set in the conversation. Set clear expectations and consider skills development, training and career paths. Make sure the plan is realistic and has measurable milestones so that progress can be measured.

5. Follow up: Set a follow-up plan and agree when you want to have another conversation. Follow up on the agreements made in the conversation and provide constructive feedback throughout the year. This will help your employee stay on track and empower them to take responsibility for their own development.