Performance reviews are significant milestones that can either enhance or hinder an employee's performance. It's essential for employers to offer constructive feedback and consistently mentor and coach their employees throughout the year. The performance review provides an excellent chance to address potential issues, overcome challenges, and uplift the morale of all employees, regardless of whether they are facing difficulties or achieving success.

In this episode of our Back to Work podcast series, we’ll explore how proper performance reviews can retain top talent, discover potential issues, address existing challenges and boost morale.

Podcast host, Joe McIntyre, is joined by Zachary Davis, General Counsel at Yoh. Zach has spent his career as an employment attorney, and as a member of the Yoh Leadership team, he is responsible for legal advice to the business, review of contracts, and compliance support. Zach joins us to give his insights into making performance reviews positive and productive for both employers and employees. 

Listen to the Full Podcast Episode:

bENEFITS of pERFORMANCE rEVIEWS 

Zach acknowledges that performance reviews can be stressful, especially for employees. However, when conducted properly, they can be highly beneficial for both the employee and the employer.

An effective performance management and review system aims to enhance both the employee and the employer, fostering an environment where constructive criticism is freely exchanged. Employees should realize that the feedback is not a personal attack but an opportunity for everyone, including myself, to improve at work.

Performance reviews should balance both positive and negative aspects. If they focus too heavily on the negative, employees may feel threatened or attacked. However, for an underperforming employee, a performance review is the ideal moment to highlight areas for improvement and, crucially, to offer a plan for addressing these issues. This approach not only helps the employee remain in their role but also become more productive, ultimately benefiting the employer.

Strategies for Consistently Strong Performance Reviews Year-Round

Maintaining consistent high performance throughout the year isn’t just about scoring well on performance reviews; it’s about making a continuous impact, strengthening professional relationships, and setting yourself up for ongoing growth and success. Here are some of the strategies Zach mentions to ensure you’re not only prepared for performance reviews but also able to excel throughout the year:

1. Set Clear, Achievable Goals – and Revisit Them Often

At the start of the year, work with your manager to establish clear, realistic goals that align with both your personal development and the company’s objectives. Consider breaking down these larger objectives into monthly or quarterly milestones, making it easier to track your progress and adjust as needed. Regularly revisiting these goals allows you to adapt to changing priorities and showcase your flexibility and commitment to growth.

2. Request and Act on Feedback Regularly

Instead of only relying on formal review periods, make feedback an ongoing part of your routine. Seek input from colleagues and managers at regular intervals to understand your strengths and areas for improvement. By showing a commitment to actively address feedback, you can demonstrate that you’re focused on continuous improvement—something highly valued in performance evaluations.

3. Celebrate Small Wins!

Never overlook the impact of acknowledging small successes. Zach emphasizes that that appreciating and recognizing your employees' accomplishments can create an atmosphere where feedback is both constructive and encouraging, enabling employees to excel and positively impact the company's success. 

Learn the most effective ways your employees respond to praise and celebrate their accomplishments accordingly. This recognition not only boosts employee motivation but also encourages your peers, fostering a supportive atmosphere that appreciates hard work and success.

Tune In for More

Performance reviews, when executed with care and precision, serve as pivotal tools for growth and development within an organization. By embracing a balanced approach that highlights both achievements and areas for improvement, employers can transform these reviews from a source of stress into a platform for empowerment.

For deeper insights on effective performance interviews, especially with the rise of AI in the workplace, be sure to listen to the full podcast episode. Whether you're conducting or receiving a performance review, you’ll gain valuable perspectives that will pave the way for your success.