How to Do a Superior Performance Appraisal

BEFORE READING THE BOOK: I have been conducting employee reviews for seven years, but I never felt I was doing a good job. I always became uncomfortable with writing and holding the review with my employees. I felt confused and inadequate (as a leader) trying to grow and develop my employees. AFTER READING THE BOOK: I learned so many of the things I was doing wrong (which are the same things almost all leaders do wrong in writing and giving employee evaluations). I took Swan's eight steps of the performance appraisal to heart, and incorporated them into my own management style. Swan explains how the performance appraisal is a yearlong process of coaching and giving feed back to your employees. I learned how to write more effective, specific, and measurable performance objectives (in order to grow and improve my emloyee's performance). I learned how to observe and journal the good and poor behavior of my employees, so that I could give specific examples during the appraisal of what they were doing well, and what areas they need to work on. I learned how to write a more objective narrative on my employee's ability to meet the company's performance factors. Everything I learned was applicable and easy to implement!In short, I learned everything I needed to know to provide my employees with a more effective review...which includes yearlong feedback and coaching, so that they can grow and develop in their positions.The result? I have gained more confidence as a leader; I have formed better relationships and a closer bond with my employees; I have learned to write better reviews; and the most important result is that my employees have come to me and have thanked me for my interest to improve their performance. They are grateful for my help in growing their careers, as well as their growth as individuals. I couldn't be more pleased! I feel that I am truly beginning to function as a leader!Oh, and more good news...the book is easy to read and understand!I hope that all managers will read this book and implement the 8 steps. :)