There are certain responsibilities that employers have to their staff and team members to track and oversee progress and performance, granting both parties an opportunity to air any concerns and discuss successes and challenges as part of employee development.
An inhouse appraisal is a meeting, usually between an employee and their line manager or direct manager, which focuses on performance and on identifying any issues as well as each employee’s own professional goals and motivations within their role and career. These meetings are generally held every quarter or every six months, with our employment lawyers in London offering support to our clients in managing the meetings themselves and the provision of appraisal and feedback forms.
Here is a short guide to inhouse appraisals based on what we have seen throughout our London-based clients.
The benefits of the appraisal process for employers
The number one benefit of the appraisal process from an employer perspective is the ability to communicate directly with employees on a one-to-one basis, to air any concerns and to discuss their performance and progression from both sides. Not only does an appraisal allow you to discuss your views on their performance, but it gives employees a chance to highlight areas of concern that they have – providing employers with information that could help them to improve relations with team members and boost retention and employee satisfaction.
As an employer, the appraisal process is an opportunity to check and discuss the progress of each employee with them, in an open conversation. When harnessed correctly, these meetings can be integral to employee growth.
Why an appraisal matters to employees
For employees, the appraisal process is a chance for their achievements to be acknowledged and for any concerns to be openly discussed in a safe and secure setting. It is often the best time for them to open a conversation about topics such as training and salary, as well as their everyday responsibilities and tasks.
An appraisal matters to employees because it demonstrates your commitment to them and their progression.
What to include in the appraisal process
The appraisal process will differ depending on your industry and the role that different employees fulfil within your business. However, for the most part, an effective appraisal should cover the following:
- Employee understanding of main duties
- Contribution to business performance
- Achievements and any challenges or shortfalls
- Concerns or issues
- Training requirements
- KPIs and goals for the coming months/year
Following discussion around these key points, an effective appraisal should open the floor to the employee. This is their chance to bring up any topics outside of the normal structure that they wish to discuss in confidence, so is an important part of a successful appraisal.
You can download an appraisal template form on our website or get in touch with us to discuss how we offer direct support to employers in conducting regular appraisals inhouse.