How to Effectively Manage Performance
If there’s one thing that most leaders dread, it’s having to manage performance. It can be tough and when you’re short of time, it can make it even harder.
But there are some simple things you can do to make the process easier, both for you and your employee. Read on!
1 Lay the Foundations
Any conversation, no matter how difficult, is always easier when you’ve developed a good rapore with someone. Establishing a relationship of trust and opening the channels of communication early on will stand you in good stead. Check in, ask them how they are, ensure you’re having regular catch ups. Then when challenges arise, your employee will feel more comfortable sharing these with you
2 Don’t Assume
There can be many reasons why someone’s performance might be slipping. They could be having problems at home, there could be health reasons, perhaps they’re not challenged enough or perhaps they just haven’t had someone invest the time to train them properly. Stop, sit down and ask the right questions.
3 Start Early
You’ve probably heard the phrase that when it comes to performance, there shouldn’t be any surprises? And there won’t be if you start giving feedback early on. As soon as you notice that someone is struggling or their performance is slipping, start talking to them. Ask if they are ok, give them examples of where you have noticed things are slipping and what support they might need.
4 Write it Down
I’ll say it again….Write it Down! It can be as simple as dropping yourself an email, taking some notes for the file or having a journal that you jot notes into but it’s important that you keep a record of the conversations.
5 Set Clear Expectations
Be honest, tell your employee exactly what your expectations are. Show them where they are currently performing and what’s expected of them. Then you can work out how to bridge the gap and what support/ training they may need.
6 Don’t give up on them
It can cost a lot to replace someone and get them up to speed and, in a candidate tight market, is potentially more costly. Invest the time and persevere. If you’re offering the right support and encouragement, it will pay off.
And if things get really tough, reach out to us at ColourHR – we’d be happy to help!