Normalizing (and Humanizing) Performance Management

By TERRA Staffing Group

Posted on September 3, 2024

Everyone wants to be successful in their careers, but achieving that success often depends on more than just individual effort—it requires a supportive environment where feedback and performance management are integral parts of growth. However, performance management often gets a bad reputation as a rigid, uncomfortable process. What if we could change that narrative? 

In a recent HR HotSpot webinar, three experts—Aaron Goldstein, employment law attorney and partner at Dorsey & Whitney LLP, Aaron Schmookler, Culture Engineer and founder of Upworks and Jenifer Lambert, Chief Strategy Officer at TERRA Staffing Group—explored how organizations can create such environments by rethinking their approach to performance management. 

They shared insights that can help HR professionals and leaders normalize and humanize performance management, making it a more positive experience for everyone involved: 

5 strategies to transform performance management: 

1. Feedback Should Be Normalized as an Opportunity for Growth

Jenifer Lambert shared that feedback should not be a rare or daunting event. Instead, it should be woven into the fabric of daily work life. When feedback is seen as a regular and constructive part of professional development, employees are more likely to view it as an opportunity to refine their skills and contribute more effectively to the team. 

2. Performance Is Not an Event, It’s a Relationship

Both Aarons stressed that effective performance management is rooted in ongoing dialogue. Rather than treating performance reviews as isolated events, they advocated for more frequent documented conversations. This approach fosters a relationship of trust and transparency between managers and employees, where both parties are actively engaged in the process of growth. 

3. Set Clear Expectations from the Beginning

Setting clear expectations is crucial to avoiding misunderstandings, as it prevents ambiguity and reduces uncertainty. Clear communication is not just about being nice—it’s about being direct. By discussing specific behaviors and actions that lead to success, managers can provide guidance that is both respectful and constructive. This fosters a culture of respect and empathy, where employees feel valued and motivated to perform at their best. 

4. Move from Abstract Critiques to Specific, Actionable Feedback

Aaron Goldstein highlighted the importance of moving away from vague, abstract criticisms like “sloppy” or “poor.” Instead, feedback should be specific and actionable, detailing how an employee’s actions impact the company and their colleagues. This shift not only helps individuals understand their areas for improvement but also reinforces the positive behaviors that contribute to team success. 

5. Investing in Employee Development

Investing in training and development initiatives bridges the gap between initial expectations and real performance needs. By equipping employees with the skills and knowledge necessary for success, organizations not only enhance individual performance but also foster a culture of continuous improvement and innovation. 

Navigating the complexities of performance management can be challenging, but with the right strategies, you can create an environment where employees thrive, contributing to a more engaged and successful workforce. 

For more insights on improving your performance management processes, explore our Employer Resource Center, where you can access a range of webinars and resources tailored to HR and business leaders. 

To dive deeper into these performance management strategies, view the full HR HotSpot webinar below.  

And if you’re interested in attending, sign up for our next HR HotSpot webinar! These webinars are designed to address pressing challenges HR professionals face, offering practical solutions and the chance to connect with peers and industry leaders. Sign up today!  

Categories: HR and Management Advice

Tags: HR Advice, HR and Management Tips, performance management

Related Posts