Turn the dreaded, near-useless annual performance review into a constant cycle of useful, meaningful feedback -- that is fun, to boot.Fred Lum/The Globe and Mail
Performance review tips for small businesses
- Keep it simple: You don’t need an elaborate system to do performance reviews. A simple form with a checklist of performance measures and a set of questions should suffice.
- Don’t reinvent the wheel: Draw from the experiences of other companies in your industry. Also check online resources for templates and pamphlets that you can adapt to your business.
- Set a realistic schedule: Book your performance reviews during slow periods. This way, you're more apt to stick to a regular schedule.
- Keep it positive: Minimize post-review tension – which can be particularly awkward in a small office – by adopting a constructive tone.
- Approach 360 review with caution: This performance review method, which seeks input from supervisors, peers and subordinates, may not be the best for intimate workplaces.
- Review your review process: As your business grows and employees’ roles in the company evolve, do regular checks of your performance review process and documents to make sure they are still relevant to you and your workers.
Marjo Johne