Kaleidoscope in HR

WHY I HAVE SELECTED THIS TOPIC.

The Economic Times – Monday 17 April 2006.

WHAT DOES INDIA INC WANT? SENIOR EXECS SPEAK OUT.

Empowerment, Clarity In Organisation’s Vision Matter Most To

Employees

Hey India Inc, if surging employee attrition is bothering you, filling employee morale is
becoming an issue, and hiring people is giving you sleepless nights, then wake up and
listen to what job-hopping highflying executives in Corporate India are demanding.
For top-rung executives, clearly, empowerment and clarity in the organisation’s
vision is what matters the most --- while 62% of India’s top executives want their
organization to clarify its vision, 31% want more empowerment. However, for the
middle and junior management, rewarding performance on a frequent basis
appears to play an important role.

What matters to your top management

33%

25%

15% 14%

5%
empowerment
performance

development
Proactive role
organisation's

Training &
Reward
Clarity

of HR
vision

More

A survey carried out by the executives search firm, Executives Access, reveals this and
provides many more insights into what Indian executives are looking for in their
career.
HR is no longer a non-core function and in the ongoing talent war, it will play a
critical role in employee engagement and retention. Look at what just happened at
Infosys—T V Monandas Pai traded his CFO job for the position of HR head, something

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virtually inconceivable a few years ago. Progressive companies are now walking up to
the importance of the HR function.
According to the survey one in every four respondents across the country wants
his/her company to let HR play a proactive role. Understandably, in the already-
conscious IT and Ites sector, this proposition got a high 25% vote. But even executives in
the FMCG and hospitality sectors voted in a similar range—21-25% --- showing that the
criticality of the HR function is being felt far beyond the technology sector.
This is also a wake up call to the manufacturing sector, which has seen top talent
fleeing to the service sector. Lagging far behind the service sector in employee
engagement, a high 37% in the manufacturing sector want their companies to empower
HR and make it play a proactive role.
The maximum overall executives votes—33% however go to giving clarity to the
company’s vision. Employees want their companies to deliver what they promise and
walk the talk. Clearly, employees want their companies to constantly communicate
and update them on its vision and goals. “ There is a very serious disconnect. One in
every three employees is not clear or cannot relate to his/her company’s vision,” says
Ronesh Puri, managing director, Executive Access. Rewarding performance is the third
most critical area of concern for employees. And guess what --- this is being felt most
acutely in the media sector. Around 30% of respondents in the sector --- almost double
the national average of 15% --- want their companies to focus a lot more on
performance reward.
As expected, performance reward got the highest marks in Bangalore, India’s Silicon
Valley, where the presence of a large number of IT companies and MNCs has raised
awareness levels among executives about reward and compensation. 21% of executives
survey in Bangalore want companies to focus on performance rewards to retain top talent.
What also came out loud and clear in the survey is a strong gender bias on the
empowerment issue. While for male executives, empowerment is an area of concern
with 17% voting for it, only 2% of women executives found it important enough in
making their career decisions. Perhaps, the fact that top management in India Inc is still a
male bastion has something to do with this, since empowerment as an issue becomes
important in the top echelons.

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WHY?

The reason why I have taken this topic is

clearly visible in the above article. HR in our
companies is still in a nascent stage and
needs to grow in every direction and should
act as the core competence for the
organisation. In this article the need for
modern HR is clearly seen. One of the
solutions to the above said problems which I
felt is PERFORMANCE APPRAISAL, which
should be conducted effectively and
efficiently to completely eliminate such
problems.

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OBJECTIVES OF STUDY

A) Primary Objectives

1) To study the performance appraisal system in different organization.

2) To study the transformation of performance appraisal form traditional to
modern.
3) To get an insight into the relative importance of performance appraisal in
organization.
4) To study the effectiveness of performance appraisal system in different
organization.
5) To study the practical application of performance appraisal.
6) To compare appraisal system of different organization and find out the
most common parameters for appraisal.
7) How can companies use performance appraisal as an effective tool to
achieve organisational effectiveness and efficiency.

B) Secondary Objectives.

1) To observe the work environment in organization.

2) To get experience and expertise in making projects.
3) To enhance my communication skills.
4) To increase my confidence.

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LIMITATIONS OF STUDY

1) To get contacts of HR Mangers for interviews was difficult.

2) Getting the views and opinion of the interviewee (HR Manager) was a difficult
task.

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OVERVIEW

Performance appraisals are a systematic way of evaluating the standard of an employee’s

performance.
Steps for developing a systematic performance appraisal

.1. Identify key performance criteria

Development of key performance criteria should be based on a comprehensive job
description and undertaken in consultation with employees.

2. Develop appraisal measures

In order to obtain accurate and valid performance appraisals, appraisal measures should
be tailored to the specific job or “job family” (i.e., groups of similar jobs). An evaluation
of factors in the work environment which help or hinder performance is also
recommended. This ensures that realistic expectations are set for employee’s
performance, and is also likely to increase the perceived fairness and acceptability of
performance appraisals.

3. Collect performance information from different sources

Traditionally, it has been the sole responsibility of managers / supervisors to assess
performance. However, other organisational members (e.g., clients, coworkers,
subordinates) can be a valuable source of information as they are likely to have exposure
to different aspects of an employee’s performance. Collecting information from multiple

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sources can increase the accuracy of performance evaluation (i.e., reduce bias), and
increase employee’s perceptions of fairness.

4. Conduct an appraisal interview

The two central purposes of the appraisal interview are to:
1. Reflect on past performances to identify major achievements, areas for further
improvement, and barriers / facilitators to effective performance
2. Identify goals and strategies for future work practice.
The appraisal interview should be a constructive, two-way exchange between the
supervisor and employee, with preparation for the interview done by both parties
beforehand.

5. Evaluate the appraisal process

The performance appraisal process should undergo regular review and improvement. For
example, focus groups or surveys could be conducted to gauge employee’s perceptions of
the appraisal process. A successful performance appraisal process should demonstrate a
change in both the ratings of employee’s performance and aspects of the work
environment that impact upon work performance.

Best practice in performance appraisal

In essence, best practice in performance appraisals involves:
• Integrating performance appraisal into a formal goal setting system
• Basing appraisals on accurate and current job descriptions
• Offering adequate support and assistance to employees to improve their performance
(e.g., professional development opportunities)
• Ensuring that appraisers have adequate knowledge and direct experience of the
employee’s performance
• Conducting appraisals on a regular basis.

Findings on Performance Appraisal of the following companies are analysed

1) 4004 Incorporated

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2) HPCL
3) Titan
4) Godrej
5) UTI Mutual Funds
6) Reliance BPO
7) Nicholas Piramal

MEANING AND DEFINITION OF PERFORMANCE APPRAISAL

P erformance appraisal is a formal system that evaluates the quality of a employee’s

performance. An appraisal should not be viewed as an end in itself, but rather as an
important process within a broader performance management system that links:
• Organisational objectives
• Day-to-day performance
• Professional development
• Rewards and incentives

In simple terms, appraisal may be understood as the assessment of an individual’s

performance in a systematic way, the performance being measured against such factors as job
knowledge, quality, and quantity of output, initiative, leadership abilities, supervision,
dependability, co-operation, judgment, versatility, health, and the like. Assessment should not
be confined to past performance alone. Potentials of the employee for future performance
must also be assessed.

A formal definition of performance appraisal is:

“It is the systematic evaluation of the individual with respect to his or her performance
on the job and his or her potential for development.”

A more comprehensive definition is:

“Performance appraisal is a formal, structured system of measuring and evaluating an
employee’s job related behaviors and outcomes to discover how and why the employee
is presently performing on the job and how the employee can perform more effectively
in the future so that the employee, organization, and society all benefit.”

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TRADITIONAL PERFORMANCE APPRAISAL

T
he history of performance appraisal is quite brief. Its roots in the early 20th century can be
traced to Taylor's pioneering Time and Motion studies. But this is not very helpful, for the
same may be said about almost everything in the field of modern human resources
management.
During the First World War, appraisals concept was adopted by US army which was in the
form of merit rating. It was man-to-man rating system for evaluation of military personnel.
From the army this concept entered the business field and was restricted to hourly-paid
workers. During 1920s, relational wage structures for hourly- paid workers were adopted in
industrial units and each worker was used to be rated in comparison to other for determining
wages rates. This system was called merit rating.
The process was firmly linked to material outcomes. If an employee's performance was found
to be less than ideal, a cut in pay would follow. On the other hand, if their performance was
better than the supervisor expected, a pay rise was in order.
Little consideration, if any, was given to the developmental possibilities of appraisal. If was
felt that a cut in pay, or a rise, should provide the only required impetus for an employee to
either improve or continue to perform well. Sometimes this basic system succeeded in getting
the results that were intended; but more often than not, it failed.
For example, early motivational researchers were aware that different people with roughly
equal work abilities could be paid the same amount of money and yet have quite different
levels of motivation and performance.
These observations were confirmed in empirical studies. Pay rates were important, yes; but
they were not the only element that had an impact on employee performance. It was found
that other issues, such as morale and self-esteem, could also have a major influence.
As a result, the traditional emphasis on reward outcomes was progressively rejected. In the
1950s in the United States, the potential usefulness of appraisal as tool for motivation and

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development was gradually recognized. The general model of performance appraisal, as it is

known today, began from that time.

MODERN APPRAISAL
P
erformance appraisal may be defined as a structured formal interaction between a subordinate
and supervisor, that usually takes the form of a periodic interview (annual or semi-annual), in
which the work performance of the subordinate is examined and discussed, with a view to
identifying weaknesses and strengths as well as opportunities for improvement and skills
development.
In many organizations - but not all - appraisal results are used, either directly or indirectly, to
help determine reward outcomes. That is, the appraisal results are used to identify the better
performing employees who should get the majority of available merit pay increases, bonuses,
and promotions.
By the same token, appraisal results are used to identify the poorer performers who may
require some form of counseling, or in extreme cases, demotion, dismissal or decreases in
pay. (Organizations need to be aware of laws in their country that might restrict their capacity
to dismiss employees or decrease pay.)
Whether this is an appropriate use of performance appraisal - the assignment and justification
of rewards and penalties - is a very uncertain and contentious matter.

OBJECTIVES OF PERFORMANCE APPRAISAL

Salary Increase
Performance appraisal plays a role in making decision about salary increase. Normally
salary increase of an employee depends upon on how he is performing his job. There is
continuous evaluation of his performance either formally or informally. This may
disclose how well an employee is performing and how much he should be compensated
by way of salary increase.

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 Kaleidoscope in HR

Promotion
Performance appraisal plays significant role where promotion is based on merit and
seniority. Performance appraisal discloses how an employee is working in his present job
and what are his strong and weak points. In the light of these, it can be decided whether
he can be promoted to the next higher position.

Training and Development

Performance appraisal tries to identify the strengths and weakness of an employee on his
present job. This information can be used for devising training and development
programmes appropriate for overcoming weaknesses of employees.

Feedback
Performance appraisal provides feedback to employees about their performance. A person
works better when he knows how he is working. This works in two ways, firstly, the
person gets feedback about his performance. Secondly, when the person gets feedback
about his performance, he can relate his work to the orgaisational objectives.

Pressure on Employees
Performance appraisal puts a sort of pressure on employees for better performance. If the
employees are conscious that they are being appraised in respect of certain factors and
their future largely depends on such appraisal.

Others
a) Identifying systemic factors that are barriers to, or facilitators of, effective
performance.
b) To confirm the services of probationary employees upon their completing the
probationary period satisfactorily.
c) To improve communication. Performance appraisal provides a format for
dialogue between the superior and the subordinate, and improves
understanding of personal goals and concerns. This can also have the effect of
increasing the trust between the rater and the ratee.
d) To determine whether HR programmes such as selection, training, and transfer

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have been effective or not.

HOW TO CONDUCT A PERFORMANCE APPRAISAL PROCESS

T
he following five-step approach to conducting a systematic performance appraisal is
recommended:
1) Identify key performance criteria
2) Develop appraisal measures
3) Collect performance information from different sources
4) Conduct an appraisal interview
5) Evaluate the appraisal process.

STEP 1: IDENTIFY KEY PERFORMANCE CRITERIA

Perhaps one of the most challenging aspects of setting up a performance appraisal is
deciding what to assess. In essence, four key dimensions of performance should be
considered in a performance appraisal.
KEY DIMENSIONS OF PERFORMANCE

Competencies Knowledge, skills, and abilities relevant to performance

Behaviours Specific actions conducted and / or tasks performed
Results / outcomes Outputs, quantifiable results, measurable outcomes and
achievements, objectives attained

Organisational Actions that are over and above usual job responsibilities
citizenship behaviours

To ensure that the performance criteria are relevant to work practice and acceptable to
appraisers and employees:
i) Base the performance criteria on an up-to-date job description
ii) Develop criteria in consultation with appraisers and employees.

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i) Base the performance criteria on an up-to-date job description:

Clear and explicit links between performance appraisal and a job description will
ensure the relevance of the appraisal. If a detailed job description is not available or is
out-of-date, it is strongly recommended that an accurate job description be developed
prior to conducting a performance appraisal.

ii) Develop criteria in consultation with appraisers and employee:

Linking performance appraisals with job descriptions can help to focus the appraisal
process on the key competencies, behaviours and outcomes associated with a
particular role or position. It can also be useful to consult with employees to:

• Ensure that key aspects of a role / position are represented in the job description,
for example:

 Conduct assessments
 Plan interventions
 Manage cases
 Liaise with and refer to other providers
 Keep up-to-date service records and case notes
 Write reports

• Develop a clear understanding of the relative importance of various

competencies,
• Behaviours and outcomes
• Identify how these key competencies, behaviours and outcomes can be fairly and
accurately assessed.

Employees are more likely to accept and be satisfied with the appraisal system if they
participate in the development of appraisal criteria and measures, and in the process of
conducting appraisals.
Strategies for facilitating employee’s participation include:
• Engagement in formal meetings or informal discussions with supervisors to seek
input and / or feedback on appraisal measures and criteria

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• Representation on groups / committees involved in the design and

implementation of
• performance appraisals
• Inclusion of self appraisals in the appraisal process
• Providing opportunities for employees to contribute to the performance appraisal
of coworkers and managers / supervisors.

It is also important that employees perceive the appraisal system to be equitable and
fair.

STEP 2: DEVELOP APPRAISAL MEASURES

Once clear and specific performance criteria have been developed, the next step is to
decide how to assess employee’s performance. It is recommended that a structured and
systematic approach is taken to assessing performance. Problems that arise when an
unstructured “blank sheet” approach is used include:
• Increased chance of appraiser errors (i.e., reduced accuracy)
• Knowledge, skills and abilities most critical to job performance may be
overlooked
• (i.e., feedback may have limited impact on performance effectiveness)
• Reduced consistency between appraisers (i.e., evaluations may reflect differences
between appraisers rather than actual differences in a employee’s performance)
• Perceptions of “subjectivity” in evaluations, which may in turn, reduce
employee’s satisfaction with, and acceptance of appraisals.

There are three important considerations in the design of appraisal measures:

i) Generic versus individually tailored measures
ii) Objective versus subjective assessments
iii) Assessing the impact of the work environment on performance.

i) Generic versus individually tailored measures

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Many workplaces use a generic rating form for all employees irrespective of their
role or position within the organisation. Although this approach can save time and
minimise cost, the accuracy and relevance of appraisals may be significantly
diminished. The “one size fits all” approach of generic measures may overlook
important performance criteria that are relevant to particular jobs, and may also
include criteria that are irrelevant to others.

Where time and other resources permit, it is more appropriate to construct appraisal
formats tailored to specific jobs or “families” of jobs. If the development of job-
specific (i.e., individually tailored) appraisal formats is beyond the resource capacity
of the organisation, an alternative would be to develop two groups of criteria:

1) Core competencies that have applicability to the performance appraisal of all

employees
within the organisation
2) Additional competencies applicable only to some jobs and included in the
performance
appraisal if relevant.

ii) Objective versus subjective assessments

A basic distinction between different types of appraisal measures concerns the use of
objective or subjective criteria.

 Objective assessments of work performance

Objective measures of job performance involve counts of various work-related
behaviours. Some common objective job performance measures include
• Absenteeism (number of days absent)
• Accidents (number of accidents)
• Incidents at work (number of incidents / assaults / altercations)
• Lateness (days late)
• Meeting deadlines.
Objective measures can be relatively quick and easy to obtain (given good
organisational record-keeping). However, it can be unwise to place too much

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emphasis on these types of objective measures. An exclusive focus on results /

outcomes may mask factors that impact on employee’s performance that are
beyond their control (e.g., client workload).

 Subjective assessments of work performance

Subjective measures rely on the judgment of an appraiser (self, coworkers, or
supervisor). Subjective assessments are commonly used in performance
appraisals and often involve the use of rating scales. Subjective assessments are
more likely to provide accurate performance appraisals when:
 The behaviours and outcomes being assessed are stated in clear behavioural terms
 The employee understands the measures (e.g., rating scales) being used to evaluate
their
 performance, and agree that the measures are fair and accurate (i.e., measures what it
is
 supposed to)
 Measurement is as brief as possible whilst addressing essential behaviours and
outcomes (frustration with long and unwieldy questionnaires may introduce error in
responses).

iii) Assessing the impact of the work environment on performance

The goal of a performance appraisal is to support and improve employee’s
performance and effectiveness. Therefore, it makes sense for an appraisal to
include an assessment of factors in the work environment that help or hinder a
employee’s capacity to perform effectively. Explicit assessment of environmental
factors is also likely to increase the perceived fairness and acceptability of
performance appraisals.
For example, an employee’s capacity to provide effective treatment interventions
is influenced by factors such as:
• Access to private, soundproofed, adequately sized rooms for counselling
• Availability of validated, user-friendly assessment tools
• Availability of reliable and approachable management / administration.

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STEP 3: COLLECT PERFORMANCE INFORMATION FROM DIFFERENT SOURCES

Once the appraisal measures are developed, the next step involves collection of accurate
performance information. A common trap is to begin noting observations of employees
just before conducting appraisals. This is likely to give an inaccurate picture of a
employee’s performance. Ideally, employee’s performance should be observed in a
systematic way over time (e.g., in a diary). This method ensures the accuracy of
information about their performances.
Many employees in the organisation operate with a relatively high degree of autonomy.
This combined with the heavy workload of most managers / supervisors, may limit
opportunities to conduct regular observation of employee’s performance. In addition,
perceptions of ongoing monitoring may foster a sense of surveillance which can damage
staff morale.
A more suitable approach may be to keep critical incident reports that note specific
examples of both excellent and unsatisfactory performances. Supervisors can also
encourage employees to keep track of their own performance records such as emails or
letters that commend them on their achievements.
Traditionally, it has been the sole responsibility of managers / supervisors to assess
performance. However, other organisational members can be a valuable source of
information as they are likely to have exposure to different aspects of a employee’s
performance. This approach is known as 360-degree feedback. For instance, coworkers
can provide valuable information on teamwork skills, and subordinates can provide
useful information on leadership style.
There are many advantages to obtaining feedback on performance from sources other
than supervisors or managers. Key benefits include:
• Accuracy and reduced bias (incorrect information from one source can be
corrected from another)
• Increased likelihood that employees will perceive the performance appraisal
system to be a fair and accurate reflection of their performance (compared to
relying on supervisor ratings alone).
If time and resources are limited, it is recommended that supervisor appraisals be
conducted in conjunction with self-assessment. Including self-assessments as part of the

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appraisal process is likely to enhance employee’s commitment to, and satisfaction with,
the appraisal process. It also provides employees with an opportunity to identify
barriers and facilitators to effective performance in their work environment.
Five different sources of performance appraisal information are considered here:
i) Manager / supervisor appraisals
ii) Self appraisals
iii) Coworker appraisals
iv) Subordinate appraisals
v) Client appraisals.

i) Manager / supervisor appraisals:

Managers / supervisors play a central role in the appraisal process, and should always
be included as one of the main appraisers. In essence, managers and supervisors have
two roles in performance appraisal:

1. “Judge”: assessing performance

2. “Coach”: providing constructive feedback and identifying areas for improvement.
Performing both roles simultaneously can be difficult. Employees may be reluctant to
admit areas for improvement if performance assessment is linked with desired
outcomes such as pay, promotion or opportunities to work in desired areas. One
solution is to separate the judge and coach roles by conducting separate appraisal
meetings.

ii) Self-appraisals:
The process of evaluating one’s own performance can help to increase employee’s
commitment to the appraisal process, perceptions of appraisal fairness, and satisfaction
with the appraisal process. Self-appraisal can also be useful for identifying areas for
development. Not surprisingly, self-appraisals are usually biased towards leniency.
Strategies to increase the accuracy of self appraisals include:

a. Using clear definitions of performance criteria linked to specific, observable

behaviours

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b. Informing employees that their ratings will be checked and compared to other
sources of
c. appraisal (i.e., for accuracy)
d. Ensuring employees receive regular feedback on their performance.
It is recommended that self appraisals are used for professional development
purposes, rather than for making administrative decisions (i.e., pay increases,
promotion).

iii) Coworker appraisals:

Coworkers can provide valuable feedback on performance, particularly where
teamwork occurs. Coworkers are often aware of different aspects of a employee’s
performance that managers /supervisors may not have the opportunity to observe. In
addition, as there is usually more than one coworker who rates a worker’s
performance, their evaluations tend to be more reliable. Coworker evaluations,
however, may be biased towards those individuals most well liked in an organisation
(i.e., friendship bias). Furthermore, coworker appraisals may have a negative impact
on teamwork and cooperation if employees are competing with one another for
organizational incentives and rewards. It is recommended that coworker appraisals
are used for professional development rather than administrative decisions.

iv) Subordinate appraisals:

Subordinates are a valuable source of information regarding particular aspects of a
supervisor or leader’s performance such as communication, team building or
delegation. Subordinates can provide feedback to help managers / supervisors
develop their skills in these areas. The focus should be on aspects of managerial
performance that subordinates are able to comment upon. This source of appraisal
may only be appropriate in larger organisations where there are sufficient
subordinates to allow anonymity.

iv) Client appraisals:

Clients may also offer a different perspective on a employee’s performance,
particularly for jobs that require a high degree of interaction with people. For
example, client appraisals can be a valuable source of feedback regarding the quality

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of service provision (e.g., the quality of interaction, degree of empathy, level of

support, degree of professionalism).

Organisations often have performance contracts that specify goals and deliverables
for client outcomes. Whilst it is important that organisational goals and deliverables
are reflected in the appraisal criteria for individuals and teams, it is recommended
that particular care be taken if incorporating client outcomes.

Relying on client outcomes as an indicator of performance can have undesirable

effects due to the complex and sensitive nature of work. A range of factors may
influence client outcomes, many of which are outside the control of an individual
employee. It is rare for a successful (or otherwise) outcome to be the sole result of
one person’s efforts. This makes client outcomes a poor reflection of the quality of
treatment provided by the employee. For example, “good” employee performance
will not always bring about client improvements, and client relapses may not be due
to “poor” employee performance.
In addition to considering client outcomes, it may also be beneficial to focus on employee’s
skills and abilities in providing services per se (i.e., independent of client outcomes).

Strategies to support appraisers and enhance appraisal accuracy

Rating another person’s performance is not an easy task, particularly with complex
jobs or performance criteria. Strategies to support appraisers and increase the
likelihood of accurate assessments include:
• Providing practical training in rating techniques, which includes opportunities to
practice appraising performance and providing feedback
• Limiting the assessment to performance criteria that an appraiser has observed /
• experienced in regard to the employee
• Providing structured assessment tools with clear explanations regarding the
criteria to be assessed, and performance standards.

STEP 4: CONDUCT AN APPRAISAL INTERVIEW

The next step in a performance appraisal is to conduct the appraisal interview. The two
central purposes of the appraisal interview are to:

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• Reflect on past performance to identify major achievements, areas that require

further development, and barriers / facilitators to effective performance
• Identify goals and strategies for future work practice.

As discussed below, supervisors and managers can use a range of strategies to ensure
that the appraisal interview is positive, constructive and of greatest benefit for
employee’s effectiveness.

Before the interview

• Help employees to become familiar and comfortable with talking about their
performance by engaging in regular, informal communication on work progress,
potential obstacles and issues, possible solutions and assistance
• Encourage employees to prepare – employees should be encouraged to review
their own
• performance before the interview
• Do your own preparation – plan ahead. Draft a list of the issues that you want to
address with the employee (i.e., strengths and weaknesses of performance,
strategies to improve performance). Give specific examples of the employee’s
performances that you want to highlight. During the interview
• Encourage employee participation – start by inviting the employee to share their
views about their performance
• Begin with positive feedback to put the employee at ease
• Make it a two-way discussion
• Set goals mutually – ensure employees participate in determining specific,
challenging but attainable goals for future work performance
• Ensure that there is a clear agreement on performance objectives and the
evaluation criteria for the next year
• Keep written records of the appraisal interview on which both parties have
“signed off”.

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After the interview

• Coach employees regularly – provide frequent feedback to help employees

improve their performance
• Assess progress towards goals frequently – periodic reviewing of progress
towards goals helps keep behaviour on track and enhances commitment to
effective performance.
• Relate rewards to performance – by linking appraisal results to employment
decisions such as promotions and salaries, employees are more likely to prepare
for, participate in, and be satisfied with the appraisal system.

STEP 5: EVALUATE THE APPRAISAL PROCESS

As with any organisational system, the performance appraisal process should undergo
regular review and improvement. For example, the process of performance appraisal
could be evaluated by conducting focus groups or surveys with employees to gauge their
satisfaction with the appraisal process (and suggestions for improvements). It may also
be useful to monitor the types of issues raised by supervisors and employees over time.
A successful performance appraisal process should demonstrate a change in both the
ratings of employee’s performance (i.e., ideally performance ratings should improve, or
at least remain at a satisfactorily stable level over time) and the work environment (i.e.,
evidence that significant barriers to work practice are being addressed by the
organisation).

METHODS OF PERFORMANCE APPRAISAL

A) Past-oriented methods

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1) Rating Scales:
The rating scale method offers a high degree of structure for appraisals. Each employee
trait or characteristic is rated on a bipolar scale that usually has several points ranging
from “poor” to “excellent” (or some similar arrangement).
The traits assessed on these scales include employee attributes such as cooperation,
communications ability, initiative, punctuality and technical (work skills) competence.
The nature and scope of the traits selected for inclusion is limited only by the imagination
of the scale’s designer, or by the organization’s need to know.
The one major provision in selecting traits is that they should be in some way relevant to
the appraisee’s job.

Advantages
The greatest advantage of rating scales is that they are structured and standardised. This
allows ratings to be easily compared and contrasted - even for entire workforces.
Each employee is subjected to the same basic appraisal process and rating criteria, with
the same range of responses. This encourages equality in treatment for all appraisees and
imposes standard measures of performance across all parts of the organization.
Rating scale methods are easy to use and understand. The concept of the rating scale
makes obvious sense; both appraisers and appraisees have an intuitive appreciation for
the simple and efficient logic of the bipolar scale. The result is widespread acceptance
and popularity for this approach.

Disadvantages
Trait Relevance
Are the selected rating-scale traits clearly relevant to the jobs of all the appraisees? It is
inevitable that with a standardised and fixed system of appraisal that certain traits will
have a greater relevance in some jobs than in others.
For example, the trait “initiative” might not be very important in a job that is tightly
defined and rigidly structured. In such cases, a low appraisal rating for initiative may not

23
 Kaleidoscope in HR

mean that an employee lacks initiative. Rather, it may reflect that fact that an employee
has few opportunities to use and display that particular trait. The relevance of rating
scales is therefore said to be context-sensitive. Job and workplace circumstances must be
taken into account.

Systemic Disadvantage
Rating scales, and the traits they purport to measure, generally attempt to encapsulate all
the relevant indicators of employee performance. There is an assumption that all the true
and best indicators of performance are included, and all false and irrelevant indicators are
excluded.
This is an assumption very difficult to prove in practice. It is possible that an employee’s
performance may depend on factors that have not been included in the selected traits.
Such employees may end up with ratings that do not truly or fairly reflect their effort or
value to the organization. Employees in this class are systemically disadvantaged by the
rating scale method.

Perceptual Errors
This includes various well-known problems of selective perception (such as the horns and
halos effect) as well as problems of perceived meaning.
Selective perception is the human tendency to make private and highly subjective
assessments of what a person is “really like”, and then seek evidence to support that view
(while ignoring or downplaying evidence that might contradict it).
This is a common and normal psychological phenomenon. All human beings are affected
by it. In other words, we see in others what we want to see in them.
An example is the supervisor who believes that an employee is inherently good (halo
effect) and so ignores evidence that might suggest otherwise. Instead of correcting the
slackening employee, the supervisor covers for them and may even offer excuses for their
declining performance.
On the other hand, a supervisor may have formed the impression that an employee is bad
(horns effect). The supervisor becomes unreasonably harsh in their assessment of the
employee, and always ready to criticize and undermine them.

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 Kaleidoscope in HR

The horns and halo effect is rarely seen in its extreme and obvious forms. But in its more
subtle manifestations, it can be a significant threat to the effectiveness and credibility of
performance appraisal.

Perceived Meaning
Problems of perceived meaning occur when appraisers do not share the same opinion
about the meaning of the selected traits and the language used on the rating scales.
For example, to one appraiser, an employee may demonstrate the trait of initiative by
reporting work problems to a supervisor. To another appraiser, this might suggest an
excessive dependence on supervisory assistance - and thus a lack of initiative.
As well, the language and terms used to construct a scale - such as “Performance exceeds
expectations” or “Below average skill” - may mean different things to different
appraisers.

Rating Errors
The problem here is not so much errors in perception as errors in appraiser judgement
and motive. Unlike perceptual errors, these errors may be (at times) deliberate.
The most common rating error is central tendency. Busy appraisers, or those wary of
confrontations and repercussions, may be tempted to dole out too many passive, middle-
of-the-road ratings (e.g., “satisfactory” or “adequate”), regardless of the actual
performance of a subordinate. Thus the spread of ratings tends to clump excessively
around the middle of the scale.
This problem is worsened in organizations where the appraisal process does not enjoy
strong management support, or where the appraisers do not feel confident with the task of
appraisal.

2) Check-list Method: Under this method, checklist of “Statements of Traits” of employee in

the form of Yes or No based questions is prepared. Here, the rater only does the reporting or
checking and HR department does the actual evaluation. The rater concerned has to tick
appropriate answers relevant to the appraisees. When the check-list is completed, it is sent to
HR department for further processing. Various questions in the check list may have either

25
 Kaleidoscope in HR

equal weightage or more weightage may be given to those questions which are more
important. The HR department then calculates the total scores which show the appraisal
result of an employee.
• Advantages – economy, ease of administration, limited training required, standardization.
• Disadvantages – Rater’s biases, use of improper weights by HR Dept, does not allow rater
to give relative ratings.

3) Force Choice Method: A series of statements arranged in the blocks of two or more are
given and the rater indicates which statement is true or false. The rater is forced to make a
choice. HR department does actual assessment.
• Advantages – Absence of personal biases because of forced choice.
• Disadvantages – Statements may not be correctly framed.

4) Force Distribution Method: One of the problems faced in large organizations is relative
assessment tendencies of raters. Some are too lenient and others too severe. This method
overcomes that problem. It forces every one to do a comparative rating of all the employees
on a predetermined distribution pattern of good to bad. Say 10% employees in Excellent
Grade, 20% in Good Grade, 40% in Average Grade, 20% in Below Average Grade and 10%
in Unsatisfied grade. The real problem of this method occurs in organizations where there is a
tendency to pack certain key departments with all good employees and some other
departments with discards and laggards. Relatively good employees of key departments get
poor rating and relatively poor employees of laggards’ departments get good rating.

5) Critical Incident Method: In this method, only critical incidents and behavior associated
with these incidents are taken for evaluation. This method involves three steps. A test of
noteworthy on the job behavior is prepared. A group of experts then assigns scale values to
them depending on the degree of desirability for the job. Finally, a checklist of incidents
which define good and bad employees is prepared.
• Advantages ---This method is very useful for discovering potential of employees who can
be useful in critical situation.
• Disadvantages --- a) Negative incidents are, generally, more noticeable than positive ones.

26
 Kaleidoscope in HR

b) The recording of incidents is a core to the superior and may be put off
and easily forgotten.
c) Overly close supervision may result.

6) Essay Method: In the essay method approach, the appraiser prepares a written statement
about the employee being appraised. The statement usually concentrates on describing
specific strengths and weaknesses in job performance. It also suggests courses of action to
remedy the identified problem areas. The statement may be written and edited by the
appraiser alone, or it be composed in collaboration with the appraisee.

Advantages
The essay method is far less structured and confining than the rating scale method. It permits
the appraiser to examine almost any relevant issue or attribute of performance. This contrasts
sharply with methods where the appraisal criteria are rigidly defined.
Appraisers may place whatever degree of emphasis on issues or attributes that they feel
appropriate. Thus the process is open-ended and very flexible. The appraiser is not locked
into an appraisal system the limits expression or assumes that employee traits can be neatly
dissected and scaled.

Disadvantages
Essay methods are time-consuming and difficult to administer. Appraisers often find the
essay technique more demanding than methods such as rating scales.
The techniques greatest advantage - freedom of expression - is also its greatest handicap. The
varying writing skills of appraisers can upset and distort the whole process. The process is
subjective and, in consequence, it is difficult to compare and contrast the results of
individuals or to draw any broad conclusions about organizational needs

7) Grading: In this method, certain categories of abilities of performance are defined well in
advance and person are put in particular category depending on their traits and
characteristics. Such categories may be definitional like outstanding, good, average, poor,
very poor or may be in terms of letter like A, B, C, D etc with A indicating the best and D

27
 Kaleidoscope in HR

indicating the worst. This method, however, suffers from one basic limitation that the rater
may rate most of the employees at higher grades.

8) Performance Tests & Observations: This is based on the test of knowledge or skills. The
tests may be written or an actual presentation of skills. Tests must be reliable and validated to
be useful.
• Advantage – Tests only measure potential and not attitude. Actual performance is more a
function of attitude of person than potential.
• Disadvantages – Some times costs of test development or administration are high.

9) Confidential Reports: Though popular with government departments, its application in

industry is not ruled out. Here the report is given in the form of Annual Confidentiality
Report (ACR). The system is highly secretive and confidential. Feedback to the assessee is
given only in case of an adverse entry. Disadvantage is that it is highly prone to biases and
recency effect and ratings can be manipulated because the evaluations are linked to future
rewards like promotions, good postings, etc.

10) Comparative Evaluation Method (Ranking & Paired Comparisons): These are
collection of different methods that compare performance with that of other co-workers. The
usual techniques used may be ranking methods and paired comparison method.

• Ranking Method: Superior ranks his worker based on merit, from best to worst.
However how best and why best are not elaborated in this method. It is easy to
administer.

• Paired Comparison Method: In this method each employee is paired with every
other employee in the same cadre and then comparative rating done in pairs so
formed. The number of comparisons may be calculated with the help of a formula
– N x (N-1) / 2. The method is too tedious for large departments and often such
exact details are not available with rater.

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 Kaleidoscope in HR

B) Future-Oriented Methods

1) MBO (Appraisal By Results) : The use of management objectives was first widely
advocated in the 1950s by the noted management theorist Peter Drucker. MBO (management
by objectives) methods of performance appraisal are results-oriented. That is, they seek to
measure employee performance by examining the extent to which predetermined work
objectives have been met. Usually the objectives are established jointly by the supervisor and
subordinate. Once an objective is agreed, the employee is usually expected to self-audit; that
is, to identify the skills needed to achieve the objective. Typically they do not rely on others
to locate and specify their strengths and weaknesses. They are expected to monitor their own
development and progress.

Advantages
The MBO approach overcomes some of the problems that arise as a result of assuming that
the employee traits needed for job success can be reliably identified and measured. Instead of
assuming traits, the MBO method concentrates on actual outcomes. If the employee meets or
exceeds the set objectives, then he or she has demonstrated an acceptable level of job
performance. Employees are judged according to real outcomes, and not on their potential for
success, or on someone’s subjective opinion of their abilities. The guiding principle of the
MBO approach is that direct results can be observed, whereas the traits and attributes of
employees (which may or may not contribute to performance) must be guessed at or inferred.
The MBO method recognizes the fact that it is difficult to neatly dissect all the complex and
varied elements that go to make up employee performance. MBO advocates claim that the
performance of employees cannot be broken up into so many constituent parts - as one might
take apart an engine to study it. But put all the parts together and the performance may be
directly observed and measured.

Disadvantages
MBO methods of performance appraisal can give employees a satisfying sense of autonomy
and achievement. But on the downside, they can lead to unrealistic expectations about what
can and cannot be reasonably accomplished. Supervisors and subordinates must have very

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 Kaleidoscope in HR

good “reality checking” skills to use MBO appraisal methods. They will need these skills
during the initial stage of objective setting, and for the purposes of self-auditing and self-
monitoring. Unfortunately, research studies have shown repeatedly that human beings tend to
lack the skills needed to do their own “reality checking”. Nor are these skills easily conveyed
by training. Reality itself is an intensely personal experience, prone to all forms of perceptual
bias. One of the strengths of the MBO method is the clarity of purpose that flows from a set
of well-articulated objectives. But this can be a source of weakness also. It has become very
apparent that the modern organization must be flexible to survive. Objectives, by their very
nature, tend to impose a certain rigidity. Of course, the obvious answer is to make the
objectives more fluid and yielding. But the penalty for fluidity is loss of clarity. Variable
objectives may cause employee confusion. It is also possible that fluid objectives may be
distorted to disguise or justify failures in performance.

2) Assessment Center Method: This technique was first developed in USA and UK in 1943.
An assessment centre is a central location where managers may come together to have their
participation in job related exercises evaluated by trained observers. It is more focused on
observation of behaviours across a series of select exercises or work samples. Assesses are
requested to participate in in-basket exercises, work groups, computer simulations, role
playing and other similar activities which require same attributes for successful performance
in actual job.
• Advantages – Well-conducted assessment centre can achieve better forecasts of future
performance and progress than other methods of appraisals. Also reliability, content validity
and predictive ability are said to be high in Assessment Centres. The tests also make sure that
the wrong people are not hired or promoted. Finally, it clearly defines the criteria for
selection and promotion.
• Disadvantages – Concentrates on future performance potential. No assessment of past
performance. Costs of employees travelling and lodging, psychologists. Ratings strongly
influenced by assessee’s inter-personal skills. Solid performers may feel suffocated in
simulated situations.

3) 360o Appraisal: It is a technique in which performance data/feedback/rating is collected

from all sections of people employee interacts in the course of his job like immediate

30
 Kaleidoscope in HR

supervisors, team members, customers, peers, subordinates and self with different weightage
to each group of raters. This technique has been found to be extremely useful and effective. It
is especially useful to measure inter-personal skills, customer satisfaction and team building
skills. One of the biggest advantages of this system is that assesssees cannot afford to neglect
any constituency and has to show all-round performance. However, on the negative side,
receiving feedback from multiple sources can be intimidating, threatening, expensive and
time consuming.

4) Psychological Appraisals: These appraisals are more directed to assess employees

potential for future performance rather than the past one. It is done in the form of in-depth
interviews, psychological tests, and discussion with supervisors and review of other
evaluations. It is more focused on employees emotional, intellectual, and motivational and
other personal characteristics affecting his performance. This approach is slow and costly and
may be useful for bright young members who may have considerable potential. However
quality of these appraisals largely depends upon the skills of psychologists who perform the
evaluation.

ESSENTIALS FOR A SUCCESSFUL PERFORMANCE APPRAISAL SYSTEM

 Basing appraisals on accurate and current job descriptions

 Ensuring that appraisers have adequate knowledge and direct experience
of the employee’s performance
 Providing ratings via aggregated anonymous feedback when multiple
sources of information are used
 Incorporating performance appraisals into a formal goal setting system
 Offering adequate support and assistance to employees such as
professional development opportunities in order to improve their
performance
 Conducting appraisals on a regular basis (at least two times a year) rather
than annually.

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 Kaleidoscope in HR

If resource constraints do not permit frequent formal appraisals, consider

conducting one formal appraisal annually, with a review of progress in the
mid-year and ongoing review in regular supervision meetings

USING PERFORMANCE APPRAISAL TO ADDRESS WORKFORCE

DEVELOPMENT CHALLENGES

Regular performance appraisals provide a useful opportunity to conduct a “check-up” on

various workforce development issues that may impact on employee’s effectiveness and
well being.
Performance appraisals can be used to:
• Recognise, reward and support effective performance
• Develop and reward effective teamwork
• Identify and manage issues likely to impact on retention
• Monitor and support employee’s well being.

Recognise, reward and support effective performance

Ensuring employees receive adequate rewards and recognition is a key workforce
development issue for the performance. Performance appraisals provide a good
opportunity to formally recognise employee’s achievements and contributions to the
organisation, and to ensure a clear link is maintained between performance and rewards.
The appraisal interview can also be used as a vehicle to demonstrate supervisory and
organisational support for employees by discussing barriers and supports to effective
performance, and strategies to address problems or difficulties.

Develop and reward effective teamwork

The appraisal interview is also a useful vehicle for recognising and rewarding employee’s
contributions to various teams in the organisation, especially if appraisal information is
gained from team members. An appraisal of the team as a whole can also be a useful
strategy to recognise and reward team performance, and to identify strategies to improve
team functioning.

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 Kaleidoscope in HR

Identify and manage issues likely to impact on retention

Open and constructive performance appraisals can be useful to identify issues that are
likely to impact on employee’s willingness to stay with the organisation in the longer-
term. Key factors associated with retention include salary and remuneration, professional
development opportunities, and work-related demands and stress. The appraisal interview
provides a good opportunity for a “check-up” regarding employee’s satisfaction with
their working conditions and environment, and a discussion of strategies to address any
problems or issues.
Monitor and support employee’s well being
Performance appraisal interviews are a good opportunity to discuss employee’s health
and well being in the workplace, particularly in regard to factors that contribute to
feelings of stress and experiences that promote satisfaction with their work.

PROFILE OF
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 Kaleidoscope in HR

COMPANIES
VISITED

1) 4004 INCORPORATED
It is a multinational company of the famous US brand Steve and Barry’s. This brand is in
to sportswear, handbags, jeans, T-shirts, jackets etc. This company performance operation
of recruitment and selection of employees and sends them to the main company in the
US. It also transports material to the parent company in the US. It has also got the award
for the best sportswear in the US.
Number of employees: 150

2) HINDUSTAN PETROLEUM CORPORATION LIMITED

HPCL was incorporated as Standard Vacuum Refining Co Of India Ltd in 1952. The
name was changed to ESSO standard refining co of India ltd in 1962. In 74, ESSO was
merged with India and the name changed to HPCL. Also ESSO undertaken were
nationalized in 74, and vested in HPCL. Caltex was nationalised and merged with HPCL
in 76 followed by Kosangas in 1979 the government has a 51% equity stake in
HPCL.HPCL is India 2nd largest ingenerated oil company with 21% share in the country’s
crude refining capacity. The company has 40%of India’s lube base oil capacity. Making it

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 Kaleidoscope in HR

largest in this segment. It is a major player in lubricants with 18% market shares. HPCL
operates toe major refiners one at Mumbai (west coast ) with a capacity of 5.5mn tones
and the other at Visaka with a capacity of 45mn tones.The Visaka refiners is being
expanded to 75mn tones . a 3mn tones refines is being operated as a joint venture with the
Indian rayon industries ltd . hr capacity of this project is being expanded to 9mn tones .
HPCL is also in the process of setting up joint ventures for upstream and down stream
integration.
Number of employees: 500

3) TITAN
The significance of the name TITAN connotes the association of the Tata Group in the
form of Tata Industries and the Tamil Nadu Industrial Development Corporation. It thus
signifies the joint venture between the Tata Group and TIDCO. The Manufacturers of
India's leading watch brand and India's only national jewellery brand - using design,
technology and people for unchallenged market leadership. Joint Venture between India's
most respected business organization - the Tata Group and the Tamil Naidu Industrial
Development Corporation (TIDCO). World's sixth largest manufacturer brand of watches
and India's leading producer of watches under the Titan and Sonata brand names.
Product portfolio includes watches, clocks, accessories and jewellery, in both
contemporary and traditional designs. Exports watches to about 32 countries around the
world with manufacturing facilities in Hosur, Dehradun, Goa and manufactures precious
jewellery under the Tanishq brand name, making it India's only national jewellery brand.
Exports Tanishq jewellery to Europe, U.S.A., Middle East and Australia. Extensive
domestic distribution network, amongst the world's largest retail chain of exclusive retail
showrooms called 'The World of Titan' with 197 showrooms and multibrand outlets
named Time Zones with 118 outlets for watches. Titan watches crossed 70 Million
customers- an endorsement of customer delight. The Tanishq Jewellery Division has 50
Tanishq boutiques.
Number of employees: Approximately 3500

4) GODREJ

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 Kaleidoscope in HR

Godrej Industries Limited is, through its chemicals division, India's leading manufacturer
of oleo chemicals and makes more than a hundred chemicals for use in over two dozen
industries. The chemicals division has built a strong manufacturing base capable of
delivering international quality products at competitive prices, and has implemented
integrated systems which ensure quick delivery of products at competitive costs. The
division has a modern factory in the Indian state of Gujarat, where vegetable oils are
converted into fatty acids, glycerine, fatty alcohols, alpha olefins and alpha olefin
sulphonates. The plant has an installed capacity of 30,000 tonnes per annum for making
natural fatty alcohols from feedstock such as palm stearine and palm kernel oil, both
renewable, vegetable-based raw materials. The company operates a second plant at
Vikhroli in suburban Mumbai. Products from this division are exported to developed and
developing countries. The chemical division's export turnover in 2001-02 was more than
Rs 100 crore, and it received export awards from Chemexcil in 1998-99, 1999-00 and
2000-01.
Number of employees: 1000 - 1100

5) UTI MUTUAL FUNDS

UTI Mutual Fund is managed by UTI Asset Management Company Private Limited
(Estb: Jan 14, 2003) who has been appointed by the UTI Trustee Company Private
Limited for managing the schemes of UTI Mutual Fund and the schemes transferred /
migrated from UTI Mutual Fund. State-of-the-art systems and communications are in
place to ensure a seamless flow across the various activities undertaken by UTI AMC.
UTI Mutual Fund has a track record of managing a variety of schemes catering to the
needs of every class of citizenry. It has a nationwide network consisting 68 UTI Financial
Centres (UFCs) and UTI International offices in London, Dubai and Bahrain. With a view
to reach to common investors at district level, 4 satellite offices have also been opened in
select towns and districts. It has a well-qualified, professional fund management team,
who have been highly empowered to manage funds with greater efficiency and
accountability in the sole interest of unit holders. The fund managers are also ably
supported with a strong in-house equity research department. To ensure better

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 Kaleidoscope in HR

management of funds, a risk management department is also in operation.

Number of employees: Approximately 1300

6) RELIANCE BPO
Capable to handle 64000 calls per hour with 24 X 7 X 365 operations. Installed capacity
of 3800 seats. Current operations from 3 sites (2 at Mumbai and 1 at Chennai) with
expansion plans to open offices in other cities of India. National Headquarters located at
Dhirubhai Ambani Knowledge City; an office complex spread across nearly 140 acres of
land at Navi Mumbai, which has offices of Reliance group companies. In House fully
equipped training centers (along with fully functional library) with capacity to train up to
400 people at any given time. Recreation areas, equipped with indoor games and other
facilities available at every floor. In addition, there is a well-equipped gymnasium in the
premises. Access to three food courts providing a variety of vegetarian cuisine on a 24 X
7 X 365 basis.
Number of employees: More than 6000.

7) NICOLAS PARIMAL
Nicholas Piramal India Limited is one of India's largest companies with an unmatched
record of managing JVs/Alliances/Partnerships, and a proven commitment to IPR. With
strong brand management and sales capabilities, a US FDA site-approved plant for on-
and-off patent APIs and Intermediates, Basic Research, Process Innovation, Custom
Chemical Synthesis, Formulations R&D, NDDS, and a world-class, accredited Clinical
Research Organisation, NPIL is poised to emerge as India's pharma powerhouse. NPIL
has emerged among the leaders in Indian pharma with a unique mix of inorganic and
organic growth fuelled through a strategy of acquisitions, brand building and focused
selling, and manufacturing. The company has one of the widest product portfolios in
India, spanning nine key therapeutic areas, including the Cardio-vascular, Neuro-
psychiatry, Oncology, Diabetes Management, Respiratory, Anti-infectives, Gastro-
intestinals, Dermatology and NSAIDS. The company was formed when the Piramal
Group acquired Nicholas Laboratories, a small formulations company in 1988 from Sara
Lee. Managed by a team of highly proficient industry professionals, NPIL's key

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strengths come from its strong brand building, selling and distribution, manufacturing
and alliance/partnership management skills. The last, especially, are quite unique in the
Indian context - few Indian Pharmaceutical have exhibited such a strong and consistent
record in successfully and ethically managing JVs/Alliances and Partnerships as NPIL
has. NPIL is the flagship company of the Rs. 2500 crore (US $ 550 million) Piramal
Enterprises (PEL), one of India's largest diversified business houses.
Number of employees: 350

FINDINGS OF

38
 Kaleidoscope in HR

COMPANIES
VISITED

LIST OF COMPANIES VISITED

1) 4004 Incorporated
2) HPCL
3) Titan
4) Godrej
5) UTI Mutual Funds
6) Reliance BPO
7) Nicholas Piramal
For the purpose of convenience a number represents each company

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 Kaleidoscope in HR

HOW DO THESE COMPANIES DEFINE PERFORMANCE APPRAISAL?

TABLE 1
Company → 1 2 3 4 5 6 7

Options↓

A      

B     

C     

D    

E 

F    

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 Kaleidoscope in HR

G     

A) A regular activity conducted periodically to rate an employee.

B) An activity to identify the developmental need of the employee.
C) An activity to keep a check on the performance of employees.
D) A system to help employees identify his own strengths and weakness with respect
to his job.
E) An instrument to control employee’s behaviour through rewards, punishment and
threats.
F) A system to assist a variety of personnel decisions by generating data about each
employee periodically.
G) A means to improve communication between the superior and subordinate.

1) 4004 Incorporated: This company considers appraisal just a regular activity to

rate an employee and to control the behavior through a carrot and stick approach.
2) HPCL: Appraisal in this company is based in the premise that it is an activity
carried out periodically to rate an employee coupled with the fact that it is also a
system where in employees need to make an introspection to find out their
strengths and weakness. Performance appraisal also facilitates in making various
personnel decisions like identifying the areas for training
3) Titan and 4) Godrej 7) Nicholas Piramal: They see performance appraisal as
that of HPCL but it also includes regular activity to keep a check on the
performance of the employees and to facilitate communication between the
supervisor and subordinates.
4) UTI Mutual Funds: For them appraisal is an periodic activity to identify the
development need of the employees and to facilitate communication between the
supervisors and subordinates.

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 Kaleidoscope in HR

6) Reliance BPO : They consider appraisal as a regular activity to check on the

performance of the employees and to facilitate communication between the
supervisors and subordinates.

OBJECTIVES OF PERFORMANCE APPRAISAL

Table 2
Company→ 1 2 3 4 5 6 7

Options ↓

A     

B      

C   

D    

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 Kaleidoscope in HR

A) To make decisions regarding salary increase.

B) To identify the training and developmental needs of the employees
C) To make decisions regarding transfers or promotions.
D) To facilitate communication between the superior and his subordinates.

1) 4004 Incorporated: They have appraisal system based on making decisions

regarding salary increase (yearly) and identifying training needs (regularly).
2) HPCL: The purpose of appraisal system in this organization is to identify the
training needs and also for affecting transfer and promotion.
3) Titan & 5) UTI Mutual Funds: The aim of their objective is to make decision
regarding salary increase, transfers or promotions and facilitate communication
between the superior and his subordinates.
4) Godrej: The appraisal system serves the purpose of to identify the training needs
and also to facilitate communication between the superior and his subordinates. It
also considers it a process to achieve the overall performance of employees would
directly link with the Business Results

6) Reliance BPO: Gives equal weightage to the objectives of making decision

regarding salary increase (Customer Service Representatives) and transfers or
promotions (Executive)
7) Nicholas Piramal : The objective of performance appraisal in the company is for
salary increase, training and development, transfers or promotions and facilitate
communication between the superior and subordinates.

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 Kaleidoscope in HR

FOR WHICH CLASS OF EMPLOYEES

Table 3

Company Class of Employee

Executive and supervisory staff, new
1
employees
2 Management and Non- management

3 Executive, clerical and supervisory staff

4 All white collar jobs

Executive, clerical, supervisory staff,
5
new employees.

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 Kaleidoscope in HR

Executive and Customer Service

6
Representative.
7 Band 1 to 7

The above table shows the classification of appraisal for different classes of
employees.
Most of the organizations have different appraisal systems for every class of
employees. This is because the factor on which a person is rated differs as per the
nature of the job. For example, a manager is rated on factors like the ability to
take decisions, ability to delegate work, leadership qualities, communication skills
etc. whereas an officer or worker is rated on different parameters like job
knowledge, accuracy and neatness of job, reliability, team spirit etc.
Most of the companies have appraisal system one for the executives level and the
other for the middle level and lower level management. Many organizations have
a separate appraisal for the new employees who are on probation. This is mainly
to make decision regarding confirming them. Almost all the companies have their
appraisals half-yearly and/or yearly.

4) Godrej: This company has appraisal for all white collar jobs which includes
Executive, supervisory staff, managerial staff and it is held quarterly.
6) Reliance BPO: It has yearly appraisal for Executive staff for promotions and
transfers and for CSRs its monthly for incentives and salary increase.

7) Nicholas Piramal: This company has a totally different type of classification for
performance appraisal. There is a different appraisal system for Band 1 to 3
employees and Band 4 to 7 where Band 1 is the lowest and Band 7 the highest.

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 Kaleidoscope in HR

HOW IS APPRAISAL DONE?

Pie chart 1

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 Kaleidoscope in HR

Formal
43%
Informal
57%
combination

0%

The above Pie chart 1 shows that a majority of the organizations have a formal
method of appraisal. Formal method refers to method where appraisal is carried
out in a more systematic manner and after a specific period of time (once a year or
twice a year). The main aim here is employee evaluation. Informal method of
appraisal is followed whenever the appraiser feels the need to communicate
something to the appraisee. It is a non-formal discussion between the appraiser
and the appraisee. This can be simply for the reason of acknowledging
outstanding performances of the appraisee during the daily course.
Formal method of appraisal is followed by 57% of the organizations.
43% of the organisations follow a combination of both –formal and informal
method of appraisal. The reason for this could be:
In an informal method, the appraisee is likely to be more open and would discuss
his problem in a candid way, in a formal method of appraisal, the appraisee might
come under pressure during the appraisal process. He is also likely to be
unsatisfied if only a formal appraisal process appraises him. However it is not
feasible to appraise a person only on an informal basis, as this would not show the
true position of the employee’s competency over a period of time. 0% respondents
follow only informal appraisal

APPRAISAL METHODS

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 Kaleidoscope in HR

Table 4
Company Methods of appraisal
1 Checklist and interview and discussions
Rating, Checklist and interview and
2
discussions
Rating, critical incidents, MBO, 360o
3
appraisal.
Rating, interview and discussions, 360o
4
appraisal.
5 Rating
6 Rating, force distribution method.
Critical incident, confidential, interview
7
or discussion

Table 4 gives the various methods applied by organisation in their appraisal

system. By observing this table we can easily note that the Rating method is the
most popular method in the organizations. It is also seen that most of the
companies have interviews and discussion as part of their appraisal system. This
is because form the organisational view point it helps to understand the employee
in a better manner and covers up the drawback and mistakes (if any) in the
appraisal system. It also helps the organisation to communicate its goals, views,
feedback, and opinion to the employees. From the employees viewpoint if there
are any thing that the employee feels dissatisfying, he can communicate to the
appraiser. He can also understand his goals, responsibilities and his current
performance.
3) Titan & 4) Godrej: These two companies are somewhat different form the rest
as they have 360o appraisal as part of their appraisal system that they conduct on a
yearly basis. Titan has recently changed its rating scale from 5 level to 3 level.
6) Reliance BPO: This company follows the method of force distribution method
i.e., the 5-point scale. It divides the employees into as
1.2 Below expectation ,3 Average performance, 4-5 Above expectati

BASES OF APPRAISAL

Table 5

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 Kaleidoscope in HR

Traits Results Job

Company ↓ Combination
Behaviour
1 
2 
3  
4 
5 
6 
7  

1) 4004 Incorporated 2) HPCL 5) UTI Mutual funds 6) Reliance BPO : An

employee of these companies is appraised on 3 parameters i.e., the qualities he
possesses, the results he achieves and also his behaviour during the course of
achieving these results.

3) Titan: Result combined with the process of achieving those results i.e., job
behaviour is the foundation of the appraisal system in this company.

4) Godrej: Here the emphasis is on the results that are achieved by the employees

From the above table we can infer that nowadays companies are focusing more
on overall performance of the employee i.e., Traits, Job Behaviour and Results.
The Attitude of the employees at the work place plays an important role in the
overall development of the organisation.

GOAL SETTING A PART OF APPRAISAL

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 Kaleidoscope in HR

6
TABLE

Company Yes No
1 
2 
3 
4 
5 
6 
7 

This is the most important aspect for any organisation as here the goal of the
company is communicated to the employees and they understand what is their
role or part in achievement of the goals. Here all the companies use performance
appraisal to set goal for the employees. This shows the importance appraisal in
any company.
1) 4004 Incorporated: This company first sets yearly goals and then breaks
it down to monthly basis. The head of the department sets the goal.
2) HPCL: This company has half yearly goal setting by the top
management.
3) Titan: Here the process of MBO is followed in this company. First the
Top management decides the goal of the company then they are broken
down for different departments and then to employees.
4) Godrej & 5) UTI Mutual Funds: This company has yearly goal setting
by the immediate supervisor.
6) Reliance BPO: Here the managerial staff decides the goals annually and
for each employee it is decided monthly.
7) Nicholas Piramal: Goal setting is done at the beginning of every financial
year. The Head of the Department or immediate supervisor usually does it.

PROBLEMS IN APPRAISAL

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 Kaleidoscope in HR

Table 7
Company → 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
Administrative
problems
Tedious task  

Time-consuming     

Casual approach

of the Appraiser
Implementation
problems
Untrained
  
Appraisers
Resistance
from
appraisees.
Assessment
problems
Bias attitude of
  
the appraiser
Difference of
opinion between
     
the appraiser and
the appraisee

The main problem in many companies is the difference of opinion between the
appraiser and the appraisee. This is solved by interviews and discussion.

The second main problem in appraisal is that it is time consuming in nature

(HPCL, Titan, Godrej, Reliance BPO, Nicholas Piramal). A lot of time is taken
for the appraisal process, starting form training the appraisers regarding the use of
appraisal, followed by target setting for the year, follower by review of
performance, then finding out the facilities and the hindering factors, then the
discussion and finally make the decision.
Lack of training is also a major problem faced by companies like HPCL, Titan,
and Godrej. Appraisers need to be trained properly for the use of the appraisal
system. Very often, companies have appraisal forms, which are supposed to be

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 Kaleidoscope in HR

self-explanatory. However, this could lead to incorrect interpretation, which poses

a problem that could go unnoticed. Due untrained appraisers, the objective of the
Appraisal system is likely to go haywire.
There are also other problems like tedious task faced by UTI Mutual Funds
Nicholas Piramal and bias attitude of the appraiser in 4004 Incorporated,
HPCL and Reliance BPO.

LINK WITH INCENTIVE AND REWARDS

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 Kaleidoscope in HR

Table 8
Company Yes No
1 
2 
3 
4 
5 
6 
7 

29%

yes
no

71%

1) 4004 Incorporated 2) HPCL: These companies do not have their appraisal

linked with the incentives. (28%)

5) Titan 4) Godrej 5) UTL Mutual Funds 6) Reliance BPO 7) Nicholas

Piramal: These companies follow the concept of performance related pay. (72%)

Appraisal can be a motivating factor when it is linked with increased pay packets.
Financial incentives pay an important role in inducing employees to perform better. That
is the reason a majority of organisations has incentives linked with appraisal.
Performance related pay allows good performance to receive material recognition for
their good performance. The appraisal is likely to be taken more seriously when the
employees are directly affected by it.

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 Kaleidoscope in HR

ATTITUDE OF THE EMPLOYEES TOWARDS PERFORMANCE APPRAISAL

a) Do employees work hard to get a better appraisal

Company All Some Very few None

1 
2 
3 
4 
5 
6 
7 

1) 4004 Incorporated 3) Titan 5) UTI Mutual Funds 6) Reliance BPO 7)

Nicholas Piramal: All employees from these companies work towards
getting a better appraisal.

2) HPCL 4) Godrej: Some employees work hard to get better appraisal.

b) Do employees talk freely about their developmental need during the

counseling session

Company All Some Very few None

1 
2 
3 
4 
5 
6 
7 

1) 4004 Incorporated 3) Titan 5) UTI Mutual Funds 6) Reliance BPO:

The respondents felt that almost all of their employees talk freely about
their developmental needs.

2) HPCL 4) Godrej & 7) Nicolas Piramal: Only some employees speak

about their developmental need.

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 Kaleidoscope in HR

SALIENT FEATURES OF FINDINGS

Every organization, irrespective of its size, has an appraisal system for its
employees. This implies the performance appraisal has become an
indispensable activity in any organization.
Most of the companies have separate appraisal system for each level of
employees. These appraisal systems differ on the factors on which a person is
rated and the nature of duties handled by him.
Even when a same appraisal system exists in different organisations, the
probability of its success is not the same. This can be attributed to the
following factors: implementation problems, organizational climate, and
commitment from top management.
In most of the companies it is seen that the employees are not satisfied with
the way they are appraised or they haven’t been appraised properly. For this
matter, almost all the companies have interview and discussion.
The frequency of appraisal in all organisations is yearly. Where appraisal is
based on Key Result Areas, a mid-term review is also undertaken. This data is
then compiled and the final appraisal is conducted at the end of the year.
In most of the cases the immediate supervisors is the appraiser but some times
it is also the HR department or the HOD.
All organizations have goal setting as part of appraisal. The performance is
evaluated against these targets.
On an average 85% of the employees in an organization are motivated by
performance appraisal.
Most of the companies use the data that is maintained for every employee to
compare the performance over a period of time. Some companies also use this
data for making decision regarding job rotation, succession planning. Very
few companies make use of this data for retrenchment as proof of poor
performance.
A good deal of respondents felt that appraisal is likely to be more successful
when it is linked with financial and semi-financial incentives like promotion,

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 Kaleidoscope in HR

bonus, increments. This increases the commitment from the parties concerned
the appraisal and the appraisee.
360o degree feedback system is not very popular in the Indian companies.
Among the companies under study, this system has been implemented in
TITTAN and GODREJ. This system can be adopted and is successful only in
the presence of an open organisational climate.
Most of the companies have a separate appraisal system for the new
employees, who are on probation. This basically to confirm them.
In most of the companies the current (new) performance appraisal was stared
in the year 2000-01. But in Nicholas Piramal it was stared in financial year
2005-06.
Almost all the companies are satisfied with the current performance appraisal
system and do not require any changes. But in Nicholas Piramal they would
like to provide more training to appraisers, weightage to few traits of
employee need to be rewarded, if possible appraisal form should be
standardised.
In most of the organizations training is provided for the appraisal system one
to two weeks before the appraisal and also when new or revised Performance
appraisal system is introduced. UTI Mutual Funds does not provide any such
training.
Performance appraisal is surly a good indicator (about 80%) for the training
and developmental need of the employees.
No monitoring is done to find out any loopholes in the performance appraisal
system and if it exists, it is on informal basis (feedback every year).
Awareness sessions about the performance appraisal (objectives and
importance) are conducted in a few organization. It is normally done for new
employees.

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 Kaleidoscope in HR

CONCLUSIONS AND SUGGESTIONS

Performance appraisal should not be perceived just as a regular activity but its
importance should be recognized and communicated down the line to all the
employees.
There should be a review of job analysis, job design and work environment
based on the performance appraisal.
It should bring more clarity to the goal and vision of the organisation.
It should provide more empowerment to the employees.
New methods of appraisal should be adopted so that both appraiser and the
appraisee take interest in the appraisal process.
The employees who have excellent performance should be used as a mentor
for other employees which would motivate others to perform better.
Employees should be given feedback regarding their appraisal. This will help
them to improve on their weak areas.
Financial and non-financial incentives should be linked to the annual appraisal
system so that employees would be motivated to perform better.
New mechanisms should be evolved to educe the time factor involved in the
procedure of appraisal. Introducing online-appraisal can do this.
The frequency of training program for the appraiser should be increased and
these sessions should be made interactive.
The awareness sessions for the employees/appraisees should be made more
interactive and the views and opinion of the appraisees regarding appraisal
should be given due consideration.
Assistance should be sought from specialists for framing a proper appraisal
system that suits the organisation climate. Constant monitoring of the
appraisal system should be done through discussions, suggestions,
interactions.
Combining the different methods of appraisal can minimize the element of
biasness in an appraisal. Like the Rating method combined with assessment

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 Kaleidoscope in HR

center method would give an evidence of poor/unfavorable or outstanding

behaviour of the appraisee, if any.
Use of modern appraisal techniques like 360o appraisal, assessment centers
which are more effective.
More transparency should be brought about in the appraisal system.
The appraisal system should cover all employees in the organisation both
white collar and blue-collar jobs.
Recognizing the good performers i.e., appraisees who have accomplished the
targets for the year can help in getting more commitment from the employees.
Information regarding the performance of the employees should be kept in
proper manner.
Some of the performance appraisals should be conducted by the top
management so that they can understand the employees and their needs,
behaviour better and to find out the loopholes.
Performance appraisal should be effectively link to the performance
management system of the organisation.
Our companies still follow the traditional methods of appraisal that
should be transformed into the modern one.

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 Kaleidoscope in HR

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Human Resource And Personnel Management - Aswathappa

Human Resource Management - Mamoria

Human Resource Management - Pande

WEBLIOGRAPHY

www. performance-appraisal.com
www.humanresource.about.com

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 Kaleidoscope in HR

ANNEXURE

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 Kaleidoscope in HR

Questionnaire for Performance Appraisal

Name of the company:

Name of Hr manager:

No of employees:

Range of products:

1) According to you what is performance appraisal system?

( )A regular activity conducted periodically to rate an employee.
( )An activity to identify the developmental need of the employee.
( )An activity to keep a check on the performance of employees.
( )A system to help employees identify his own strengths and weakness with
respect to his job.
( )An instrument to control employee’s behaviour through rewards, punishment and
threats.
( )A system to assist a variety of personnel decisions by generating data about each
employee periodically.
( )A means to improve communication between the superior and subordinate.

2) What is the objective of the performance appraisal system in your

organisation?
( )To make decisions regarding salary increase.
( )To identify the training and developmental needs of the employees
( )To make decisions regarding transfers or promotions.
( )To facilitate communication between the superior and his subordinates.
Any other (Please specify)

3) Do you have a separate Appraisal system for each class of employees? If yes,
what is the classification?
( ) Executives ( ) Clerical jobs ( )Secretarial jobs.
( ) Supervisory staff ( ) New employees

(Or any other classification, please specify)

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 Kaleidoscope in HR

4) How frequently is PA done in the organization? (Please type ‘y’ for selecting
a box)

Frequency of Daily Weekly Monthly Quaterly Half yearly Yearly

Appraisal
Class of
employees
Executives
Supervisory
Clerical jobs
Managerial staff

5). How is Appraisal done?

( )Formal ( ) Informal ( )Combination of these

6). Who appraises?

( )Immediate Supervisor ( ) Rating Committee ( ) Peers

( ) Subordinates ( ) HR Department ( ) HOD

7). Which method do you follow in these?

( )Rating method ( )Interview or discussion
( )Force choice description ( ) MBO
( )Checklist method ( )Human asset accounting
( )Critical Incidents Method ( )360 degree appraisal
( )Confidential Method
( )Psychological Appraisals
(Any other, please specify)

8) On what basis do you appraise an employee?

( ) Traits ( ) Results
( ) Job behaviour ( ) A combination of these. (Please specify)

9) Is goal setting a part of your PA system?

( )Yes ( ) No
If yes, when is it normally done?

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 Kaleidoscope in HR

At the beginning of: ( ) every year ( ) every week ( ) every month

( ) every day

Who does it. ( )Supervisors ( )Top Management ( ) HR manager

( )HOD
If other specify

10) Is Performance Appraisal a motivating factor for employees?

( )For all employees. ( ) For some employees.

( ) For very few employees. ( ) For none of the employees.

11) Does an Appraisal keep notes on the major achievements and failures of his/her
appraise?

( ) Yes ( ) No
If no, what are the reasons? ( ) It is difficult to keep records or ( ) It is not
required.

12) When was the current Performance Appraisal system introduced in the
organization?

13) Has there been a change in the Performance Appraisal system in your
organization over a period of time?, If yes, what are the changes?

14) What is the attitude of employees towards a Performance Appraisal System?

Do employees consider PA just a regular activity to rate them. if yes , how many?
( ) All ( ) Some ( )Very few ( ) None
Do employees work hard to get a better appraisal. If yes, how many?
( ) All ( ) Some ( )Very few ( ) None
Do employees talk freely about their developmental need during the counseling
session?
( ) All ( ) Some ( )Very few ( ) None

15) According to you, Performance Appraisal is a ------% correct indicator of an

employee’s developmental/ training needs?

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 Kaleidoscope in HR

( ) 100% ( ) 75% ( ) 50% ( ) 25%

16) Is Self-Appraisal a part of your system? ( ) Yes ( )No

If yes, for which cadre of employees? ( )Executives level ( ) Top
Management
If other specify,

17) Is discussion or interaction between the Appraiser and the Appraisee a part
of the system?
( ) Yes ( ) No
If yes for which cadre of employees?(please specify)

18) Do you face any of the following problems with the Performance Appraisal
System in your organization?
Administrative problems. ( ) Tedious task ( ) Time-consuming process.
( ) Casual approach of the Appraisor. ( ) Other

Implementation problems. ( ) Untrained Appraisers ( ) Resistance

from appraisees. ( ) Other

Assessment problems. ( ) Bias attitude of the appraiser

( ) Difference of opinion between the
appraisor and the appraisee
( ) Other

Which of these do you think is a serious problem?

19) Do you give training to the appraises for the use of the Performance
Appraisal system?
( ) Yes ( ) No
If yes when are they held normally

20) Are any sessions held to make the employees aware of the PA system, its
objectives & its importance in career development?
( ) Yes ( ) No
If yes, when are they normally held?

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 Kaleidoscope in HR

21) Is the Performance Appraisal System in your organization linked to he

incentives or the reward system?
( ) Yes ( ) No
If yes, how is it linked?

22) How do you use the Performance Appraisal data that is maintained for every
employee?
( ) To compare his performance over a period of time.
( ) During retrenchment (as a proof performance)
( ) There is no use of the data maintained after a certain period of time.

23) Is there a constant monitoring to find out any loopholes in the PA system or
do you take the feedback from the employee regarding the Appraisal system?
If yes, how is it done?

24) Do you have a separate committee to review the Performance Appraisal

results?
( ) Yes ( ) No

25) Do you think the system of Performance Appraisal has been successful in
your organization and is able to achieve the required objectives in your
organization?
( ) Yes ( ) No
What changes do you suggest in the system?

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 Kaleidoscope in HR

A SMALL MESSAGE

“ Don’t Cry Because It Is Over Now

Laugh Because It Happened”

66