During an annual performance appraisal, employees report that the process is highly subjective. What should the manager do when preparing performance standards for the next year?

Preparing clear and measurable objectives when setting performance standards addresses the subjective nature of the appraisal process. Clear and measurable objectives provide a concrete framework for evaluation, reducing ambiguity and subjectivity. This means that both the employees and the manager can refer to specific goals that have defined metrics, which can include performance indicators such as productivity levels, completion rates, or quality assessments. This clarity helps ensure that employees understand what is expected of them and how their performance will be assessed.

By focusing on clear and measurable objectives, the manager can create a fairer and more transparent appraisal process. This method allows for more objective discussions during performance evaluations since both parties can evaluate outcomes against the established criteria. Moreover, measurable objectives can motivate employees, as they can track their progress toward specific goals and understand the criteria upon which their performance will be judged.