Reviews

For most employees and employers, the annual performance review is as joyous as spending an hour or so on the rack. But there are ways to make the experience less painful for both parties. As an employer, you can lay the groundwork for a productive meeting by including details of your performance review process, including how and when reviews are conducted, in your new employee orientation. As the review period draws near, prompt the employee time to think about his or her accomplishments, objectives, and questions. During the scheduling, discuss any problems so that the employee can come to the review prepared to discuss solutions. You might also consider having the employee conduct a self-review in advance.