When implemented well, it can unlock employee potential, fuel professional growth, and ultimately contribute to achieving your business goals. We recognise that it can be scary for managers. It’s also not one activity. It’s a group of practices, which you need to apply consistently.
So, what would we recommend so you can successfully manage the performance of your team or an individual whilst avoiding the pitfalls?
- Firstly, set clear expectations. It’s important to start by setting clear and doable goals for each role in your business. Failing to tell employees what your expectations are when they join, will create problems later on as employees lack direction. And don’t forget to revisit them often to align with your business goals.
- Provide Regular Feedback. Foster a culture of continuous feedback by having regular, helpful talks with employees. Acknowledge successes and address areas for improvement. Offer guidance and support to help them reach their full potential. Give quality feedback and by quality we mean being specific, relevant, constructive, credible, and unbiased. This well-crafted feedback has an enormous impact. It’s much more important than how often, when, or how much you give it. Click this link for more information: https://www.cipd.org/uk/knowledge/evidence-reviews/performance-feedback/
- Set SMART Goals. These are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. Set them with employees to give clarity and direction for their work. Employees know what is expected of them with the help of SMART goals. They will also help you to track progress.
- Encourage Development Opportunities. Support employee growth with training, mentorship, and learning. Investing in employee development improves skills and knowledge. It also fosters loyalty and engagement.
- Recognise and reward achievements. Celebrate employee successes and milestones. This will boost morale and motivation. It can take various forms such as verbal acknowledgment, a simple thank you, or a formal recognition programme. Showing appreciation goes a long way in boosting performance.
- Promote Open Communication: Encourage open and transparent communication between you and your employees. Create a safe space where they can voice concerns, share ideas, and ask for support. This will foster trust and teamwork within the team and subsequently, of you, as a manager.
- Create paths for career growth within your business. This will keep top talent and build loyalty. Offer promotions, leadership roles, and new responsibilities. Give them to employees who show commitment and potential.
- Check Performance Metrics. Track KPIs and metrics important to your business. Use them to measure progress and find areas to improve. By using data-driven insights you can make informed decisions and adjust strategies as needed.
- Finally, lead by example. Do this by demonstrating the behaviours and values you expect from your team. By showing dedication, professionalism, and a commitment to improvement, you will inspire your employees to do the same.
Our recommended HR software, Breathe HR, includes a performance management tool. It helps you recognise and reward your people for their hard work. In the Breathe HR system, you can track employee performance. You can also arrange one-to-ones, manage annual appraisals, and set staff goals. Effective performance management is essential for businesses to thrive and grow. Our previous blog on people management and the link to productivity may be useful if you want to read some more on the subject: https://albanyhr.com/hr-management/people-management-and-its-link-to-productivity/
Remember performance management should be a continuous cycle, not an isolated event. You should review and update employee objectives in line with the changing priorities within your business. Regular feedback and performance reviews should happen. As a manager you can create a supportive work environment by using these top tips. The benefits are many and the more you apply these tips, the greater organisational performance will be and you’ll be empowering your employees to excel and contribute to your business’s success.
Albany HR can support with:
- · Performance Management tools.
- · Performance Management policies.
- · Performance Management training and managers guidance.
- · HR Software implementation.
- · Employee surveys.
Please get in touch for a chat about how we can support you letstalk@albanyhr.com, 0131 364 4186.