Page - 1

Abstract

One of the most difficult internal process that HR has to face every year, once or twice, is employee appraisal. The appraisal process in an organization requires lots of
resources (both financial and manpower). On other hand, it also offers organizations an excellent opportunity to analyze the strengths and weaknesses of the organization. While a well-planned appraisal can provide lots of inputs on re-aligning your organization and boost your profitability, a poorly-planned appraisal can cause frustration among employees.

This article describes in brief a sample step-by-step process for planning, executing and getting results from a performance appraisal exercise. We will discuss the following points in the article further: -

1. Defining vision & objectives of performance appraisal

2. Creating a performance appraisal Plan

3. Creating awareness about appraisal

4. Organization-wise training of appraisal process

5. Selecting appropriate appraisal tools

6. Data collection & analysis

7. Normalization of appraisal scores

8. Utilization of appraisal scores

9. Assessment of training needs

10. Training & development plans

1. Defining Vision & Objectives

Before initiating the appraisal, every HR Manager should ask himself - Why appraisal? What I want to achieve out of it? Will appraisal add value to the organization? The answer to such questions will lay foundation of the vision and objectives of appraisal for the organization. The objectives of the appraisal process should align with business objectives. The vision and objective should be formally written and communicated to all relevant people in the organization.

2. Creating an Appraisal Plan

Once objectives have been defined, a detailed Appraisal Plan should be drafted. This may consist of the target dates of appraisal initiation for every department, time allocated for various activities, people allocated for various processes, etc. This draft should be reviewed by the senior management and finalized as a master blue-print for the appraisal.

Next

Gireesh Kumar Sharma is BA & MA (English) from Kakatiya University. He is currently working as HR Analyst in Saigun Technologies Pvt. Ltd., and also pursuing PGDBM from IIMM, Pune. His first book titled, "How to Win Office Politics", has been published by Mahaveer Publishers, New Delhi. The book highlights various aspects of the working atmosphere in office and provides tips to enhance growth in office.