UNIT – I Lesson 1 HRM – AN OVERVIEW Lesson Outline Nature of ...

Defining objectives
The first step in the systematic appraisal system is to define the objectives of the
appraisal itself. Appraisal is used for different purposes from motivating the appraise to
controlling their behaviour. In each case, the emphasis on different aspects of appraisal
differs. For example, reward providing appraisal, such as salary revision or promotion
differs from appraisal for training and development.
Defining appraisal norms
Appraisal is done in the context of certain norms or standards. These may be in the
form of various traits of the apprises or their expected work performance results. Since
one of the basic long-term objectives is to improve performance, appraisal is more
performance oriented. Hence performance norms are to be specified in the beginnings of
the period for which appraisal is concerned.
Designing appraisal programme
In the design for appraisal programme, types of personnel to act as appraisers,
appraisal methodology and types of appraisal are all to be decided. Ideally speaking all
personnel of the organization should be covered by the appraisal system. But generally
various organizations keep lower level employees out of the purview of formal appraisal.
Generally, the superior concerned appraises his subordinates. However, the present trend
in appraisal suggests the concept of 360 degree appraisal, which involves appraisal by the
apprises himself known as self appraisal. The next issue is the methodology to be used in
appraisal system. Should it be through structured forms and questionnaire or personal
interview of the appraises or a combination of both is to be decided. Along with this the
time period and tuning of the appraisal should be decided.
Implementation
In implementing appraisal programme, the appraisal is conducted by the appraisers
and they may also conduct interview if it is provided in the appraisal system. The results
of the appraisal are communicated to HR department for follow up actions which should
be oriented towards the objectives of the appraisal.
Appraisal feedback
Appraisal feedback is the most crucial stage in appraisal process. If they are rated
high or performance highly applauded, naturally they are happy and feel their self –
esteem is high. On the other if they are rated low they resent, cry and may even be ill-