How to Write an Annual Performance Appraisal

An annual performance appraisal is an important duty of managers. The company is depending upon you to make an effective determination of your employee's job performance. The employee depends upon the results of your appraisal for job recognition and advancements in both salary and position. Making an honest and effective appraisal of an employee's job performance is crucial to finding and keeping well-trained, competent and satisfied employees.

A manager who is preparing to perform an annual performance appraisal of an employee must strive to keep personal feelings out of the job evaluation process. You are looking at how this person performs his job, not how well you like him. A manager must be unbiased in his review. This is not a time to make a job review a personal vendetta against an employee that you do not particularly care for.

Have your employee complete a self-assessment and turn it in to you well before the time of the performance appraisal. The employee's self-assessment should contain questions about how she sees herself in relation to the company. It contains questions regarding how well the employee feels he is doing on his job, areas of strength, areas of weakness, and areas he feels he could improve upon. Study the self-appraisal carefully to determine areas you will need to address during the performance appraisal. Most employees will take the time to complete a well-thought out and thorough appraisal. The employee's desire is to be rewarded for his hard work and value to the company.

Write down your questions ahead of time and be prepared to answer questions as well. Have your ideas ready to tell the employee of needed areas of improvement and how you feel she can improve her job performance. An employee will appreciate your honesty. Be sure that you point out the positive aspects of her job performance as well as the negative. Your employee should feel comfortable discussing areas of concern with you, so strive to make the employee feel comfortable during the process.

Communicate effectively during your performance appraisals. Speak clearly and effectively, making sure you are being understood. Ask the employee if he needs clarification on any points. Keep the atmosphere positive. An employee will strive to perform well when he feels he is appreciated for his value to the company and when he feels he is being fairly compensated. The lines of communication between manager and employee do not have to close after the annual performance appraisal is closed. Have an open door policy and invite your employee to return any time to discuss areas of concern.

Sources:

Writing the Effective Performance Appraisal

How You Write an Annual Performance Appraisal

Tips on Writing Effective Employee Performance Appraisals