Handling Tricky Appraisals

Carol expects to be showered in praise at her forthcoming appraisal with Marcus, but is shocked to find Serena will be sitting in. When they question Carol’s extremely high self-assessment, she becomes defensive and angry, especially when Marcus announces no bonus and a pay cut! But will management also be taking cuts? Carol must get back on her horse.

Carol is upbeat and positive on the morning of her appraisal. She is confident that she’ll be showered in praise, until she walks into Marcus’ office and finds that the company VP, Serena, will be sitting in on the appraisal.  Marcus and Serena question various aspects of Carol’s extremely high self-assessment. Carol becomes offended and defensive, and at times takes her emotion out on Serena. It all takes a turn for the worse when Marcus announces that Carol won’t be receiving a bonus. She’ll also be required to take a pay cut! But will management also be taking pay cuts and loss of a bonus? How will Carol get back in control?

  Key Learning Points

“Appraisals can be constructive, destructive or useless. Your contribution directly impacts the outcome.”

BE PROFESSIONAL WITH ALL APPRAISALS 

Don'tcause surprises at the appraisal
INSTEAD: Prepare the person for what to expect

Don'tbe vague about improvement
INSTEAD: Discuss specific ways to improve

Don'tdisregard employment contracts
INSTEAD: Reward achievements as agreed

Don'tallow conflict to escalate
INSTEAD: Remain calm and focus on goals