4 Tips for Taking the Pain Out of Year-End Performance Reviews

That time of the year is upon us: performance reviews. It’s certainly not everyone’s favorite obligation, but when approached right, can be extremely valuable. The trick is, how do you make them easy and painless – and derive value from them? It’s simpler than you might think. Here are a few steps to take from the Houston, Texas headhunters at Murray Resources to help with your next round:

Don’t pass on preparing.

The more you and your employees put into preparing for performance reviews, the more you’ll both get out of them. As the boss, that’s a lot of work depending on the size of your team. However, if you walk into a review without a lot of thought as to goals and expectations, you’re simply wasting everyone’s time. Instead, you owe it to your staff members to make the effort and truly review past performance, thinking through strengths, weaknesses and goals for the future.

Be clear about your expectations.

There’s no need for high and lofty objectives and big-picture strategies when it comes to this conversation. Keep it simple and clear. Let your employees know where they stand. Don’t be vague or sugar coat. Just have a conversation in plain language that outlines what’s working, what’s not and what you need going forward. If your employees leave their reviews uncertain about your expectations, they’re not going to hit your targets.

Keep development top of mind.

Remember, as the manager, it’s your job to ensure your people are learning and growing. That’s why a performance review is a good time to talk about career advancement, general goals and development. Ask your employees what they like about their jobs and what they’d give up. Also talk about where they see themselves in the company in the future. When you take a sincere interest in the careers of your employees, not only will they be stronger for it, but they’ll feel more valued.

Don’t blindside.

If an employee is having major performance issues, don’t wait until a review to bring it up. Instead, this should be dealt with in a timely manner as it’s occurring. If it’s already a known problem, you might bring it up to discuss progress. However, your employee shouldn’t be hearing about it for the first time in a review. This will throw the conversation completely off track and away from overall performance.

As Houston, Texas headhunters, Murray Resources knows that organizations take all different kinds of approaches when it comes to conducting performance reviews. Whatever your’s looks like, incorporate the tips above and you’ll be well on your way to a less painful and more productive review process.

Need help finding top-quality performers for your team in 2019?

Call the Houston, Texas headhunters at Murray Resources. We’re the local source for high-quality talent, quickly. We’ll learn about your goals and needs, source top-fit talent, and help you make the best hiring decisions possible for your team. Contact us today to learn more or get started.