To Rate or Not To Rate: Recent Trends in Performance Measurement

Abstract

Research suggests that many organizations are not satisfied with their performance management (PM) processes. Specifically, managers and employees alike often perceive the PM process as one that is inefficient, generates inaccurate information, and does not produce the desired outcomes (e.g., improved performance, engagement, and commitment). Several recent trends have emerged to address these concerns. These trends range from complete abolishment of performance ratings to elimination of certain components within the PM process (e.g., forced distribution, stacked ranking, etc.). Many organizations have eliminated these methods to shift the focus away from evaluation and more toward coaching and feedback for development purposes. This session will present practitioners’ viewpoints on these and other trends. Specifically, representatives from ConAgra Foods, JetBlue Airways, New York Life, Google, RoundPegg, Leadership Research Institute, and CEB will share their perspectives and experiences with various PM processes. Each panelist brings with them a unique perspective and set of experiences related to PM. Panelists will also share strategies and best practices, which would be particularly beneficial for audience members interested in optimizing their PM system. Panelists will be asked a series of questions addressing panel members’ own practices and perspectives, pros and cons associated with recent trends, and the impact of PM modifications on differentiating talent, paying for performance, identifying training/development needs, and conducting talent analytics.