Should your business reconsider reverse appraisals?
As discussion around the effectiveness of performance reviews tends to hold the spotlight, many companies overlook feedback from their workers.
However, a recent survey conducted by Hays has revealed that many workers believe reverse appraisals could be an effective way to spur change in their organisation.
Out of the 6,698 Australian business professionals surveyed, 70 per cent believed that positive changes could occur based on their feedback. Many also felt that their managers would seriously consider their comments, yet 26 per cent believed that change would be slow.
Surprisingly, only 4 per cent held a sceptical view, believing that reverse appraisals would make no difference to their company. These results highlight a comeback for this form of evaluation, as Nick Deligiannis, Managing Director of Hays, explained the benefits for both staff and managers.
“Employers of choice – and those who want to be – recognise that reverse appraisals matter and are an important tool in giving employees a voice,” he explained.
“Provided the feedback is taken seriously, reverse appraisals also show staff that their views are trusted and respected, which has a powerful positive impact on employee engagement.”
In order to conduct these sessions effectively, managers and their employees need to be comfortable speaking honestly while still remaining tactful and professional. According to Hays, it is also important for both parties to understand the purpose and expected outcomes of the appraisal, whether performed anonymously or face to face. Seeking the help of HR consulting will ensure that managers are prepared to run sessions that lead to positive change.
Like any performance review, using real-life examples is the best way to illustrate how a manager can improve. Outlining a significant situation that recently occurred and working through the actions taken and the outcomes can provide specific areas where all employees can work to improve performance.
