Leadership Tip

How to conduct a performance review in 10 minutes

There is growing evidence that conventional performance reviews are not working. One major issue is the time commitment they require: When many employees already get feedback regularly, formal reviews just take too long. A faster, but still effective, method is the “10-minute review":

  • Create a spreadsheet with two columns: "laudable," a few phrases about where the employee is doing well, and "adverse," a few phrases where he/she is falling short.
     
  • During the review, explain that your goal is to identify both positive traits and areas for improvement. Tailor your message to show that the review is about helping the employee. Then ask the employee how he/she prefers feedback: Kind and nurturing? Pointed and direct? Use their answer to decide whether to start with  "laudable" or "adverse".
     
  • After talking through the points on your spreadsheet, use the last few minutes to let the employee respond to what you have said.

The above leadership tip...
was sent in response to a question from a participant on our acclaimed 10/10 leadership development and mentoring programme and adapted from Tough Love Performance Reviews in 10 Minutes by Mona Patel. Whether you're a first time manager or an experienced leader, straightforward, practical advice on best practice is hard to find. Until now. To find out how you, your team or your organisation can benefit, please join us on our next complimentary webinar or contact us.

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