Conversations about Job Performance

Organizational appraisals systems are often ineffective and result in unnecessary spending on the part of a company and unnecessary anxiety on the part of employees. Written for practitioners and advanced students, this book presents an alternative approach to the performance appraisal process that focuses on communication rather than evaluation. In this communication-centered approach to performance, the appraisal process is designed to facilitate meaningful and open interaction between employees and their supervisors. By reducing the stress involved for both parties in the typical appraisal interview, more information is gathered from the employee, clearer outcome objectives are specified, and organizational commitment is enhanced. Conducting a systematic and open appraisal should reduce the legal liability of the organization while improving employee job performance. This book will benefit individuals who conduct performance appraisals and those who are charged with designing the appraisal approach for their organization. Readers who are new to management will learn the best practices early in their career and avoid potentially costly mistakes.