HRreview Header

Appraisals going out of fashion as employees left wanting for constructive criticism

-

The opera house in Copenhagen. Constructive criticism is generally not something missing in the theatre, but in the workplace appraisals are not happening as often as they used to. Image: Henning Larsen Architects
The opera house in Copenhagen. Constructive criticism is generally not something missing in the theatre, but in the workplace appraisals are not happening as often as they used to. Image: Henning Larsen Architects

The theatre is not a place that wants for criticism. Reviews of performances come in thick and fast and when praise is due it often gushes, and in similar fashion, when something is judged to be terrible, the poison pours. Performers, in some cases, use reviews to hone and better their performance.

An appraisal is the employee’s version of an actor’s review, but unlike the review, appraisals in the workplace are becoming less common. They have traditionally always been a yearly occasion that often provokes dread in the hours and days before they occur.

Year long wait

New research released by Enterprise Study found that one-in-five staff employed for longer than a year said they have yet to experience their first annual review.

Of those employees who had been lucky enough to undergo an appraisal, 43 percent had to request it themselves, with 27 percent having to wait more than six months to have it after the request was made.

Postponed 

The report also investigated the reasons why appraisals were being postponed. Managers ‘being too busy’ was the principal reason (38 per cent), while only 57 percent of staff said their managers had opted to take the initiative and schedule an appraisal themselves.

It also became apparent in the study that some employers believe that if their company is small and informal then a structured appraisal process is not required. Many HR managers would, no doubt, disagree.

Robert joined the HRreview editorial team in October 2015. After graduating from the University of Salford in 2009 with a BA in Politics, Robert has spent several years working in print and online journalism in Manchester and London. In the past he has been part of editorial teams at Flux Magazine, Mondo*Arc Magazine and The Marine Professional.

Latest news

Turning Workforce Data into Real Insight: A practical session for HR leaders

HR teams are being asked to deliver greater impact with fewer resources. This practical session is designed to help you move beyond instinct and start using workforce data to make faster, smarter decisions that drive real business results.

Bethany Cann of Specsavers

A working day balancing early talent strategy, university partnerships and family life at the international opticians retailer.

Workplace silence leaving staff afraid to raise mistakes

Almost half of UK workers feel unable to raise concerns or mistakes at work, with new research warning that workplace silence is damaging productivity.

Managers’ biggest fears? ‘Confrontation and redundancies’

Survey of UK managers reveals fear of confrontation and redundancies, with many lacking training to handle difficult workplace situations.
- Advertisement -

Mike Bond: Redefining talent – and prioritising the creative mindset

Not too long ago, the most prized CVs boasted MBAs, consulting pedigrees and an impressive record of traditional experience. Now, things are different.

UK loses ground in global remote work rankings

Connectivity gaps across the UK risk weakening the country’s appeal to remote workers and internationally mobile talent.

Must read

David Bowes: How to help your team take a guilt-free break this summer

Summer should be the season of rest and real recovery, not inbox anxiety and Teams meetings by the pool. Yet, for many employees, switching off over the summer remains a serious challenge.

Debra Clark: Reviewing Benefits: why, what and how

"Now is the time for employers to review their benefits provision to consider what employees require in the post-Covid working world."
- Advertisement -

You might also likeRELATED
Recommended to you