Launched today, Appraisal and Feedback: making performance review work, newly revised, by Professor Clive Fletcher, is aimed at both HR professionals and line managers and brings fresh insight into how best to implement an appraisal system against a backdrop of 360 degree feedback, increased used of technology to monitor performance (e.g. in call centres) and the internationalisation of business.
The book reports that 80% of organisations say that their appraisal system is not achieving its aims and is a timely reminder that organisations must continuously review their arrangements.
Author, Professor Clive Fletcher says: Mention the world appraisal and some people will think of it in terms of painful experiences such as a trip to the dentist. It has become an emotive word partly because it tends to be done rather poorly and partly because in the public sector it has sometimes been thrust upon employees as part of centralised government policy and target setting.
But appraisal, when carried out effectively is a tremendous motivator, identifies potential and improves business performance. Organisations leave it to chance at their peril.
The practical publication presents detailed guidance from design, aims and content, through to appraisal as part of performance management, feedback systems (including multisource feedback), training of managers and appraisal in the public sector.
Appraisal and Feedback stresses that performance appraisal cannot stay the same and still claim to be relevant. It makes the point that the old style central model delivered to all staff, in the same manner is no longer appropriate.
And performance appraisal makes a difference. A study of 61 hospitals (West and Patterson 2002) showed that there is a strong correlation between appraisals and patient mortality rates, with the former accounting for 23% variance in the latter.
Concludes Fletcher: Performance appraisal can make a big difference to employee attitudes - we have the evidence that proves this.
CIPD book on appraisal designed to overcome going to the dentist feeling
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