Performance appraisals are a fundamental part good performance management.  It is important for the success of your business that your employees feel appreciated and that they are progressing in their careers.   Likewise, it is important that any issues with performance are managed effectively with the aim of eliminating any long term problem.

1. Always ensure the conversation is free flowing with views expressed by both parties
2. Ask open and probing questions
3. Don’t interrupt or inhibit the flow of conversation
4. Pay attention to non-verbal communication such as body language
5. Evaluate performance, not personality
6. Give feedback based on facts not subjective opinion
7. Positively reinforce the good
8. In the case of underperformance discuss corrective action
9. Tailor your approach to each individual
10. Be prepared to handle negative or defensive reactions
11. Set specific, measurable, achievable, realistic and timely objectives
12. Give deadlines/timelines for improvement
13. Consider potential development opportunities
14. Empower employees to come up with solutions for themselves
15. Document each appraisal whilst it is fresh in your mind.