Performance Appraisal - 360 Degree

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360 degree feedback is a performance appraisal which comes from an employee’s immediate work circle [Marchington & Wilkinson, 2012, Human Resource Management at Work]. It involves analysis of their recent successes, failures, strengths and weaknesses in suitability for promotion or further training. A number of stakeholders can participate in a 360 degree feedback. Superiors, sub-ordinates, peers, oneself and even the customer can contribute towards employees’ feedback. Studies have shown that the use of 360 degree feedback improves employee performance as the individual being evaluated can see different perspectives of their performance [Walker & Smither, 1999]. While 360 degree feedback is used frequently within a growing number of firms, [Torrington, 2012] it is however very time consuming and a complex process which can lead to high costs. This essay evaluates 360 degree performance appraisal to determine whether or not it is a successful measure to attain employee feedback. Generally, 360 degree feedback uses a survey approach and a questionnaire which matches the needs of the firm. It is based on behavioural competencies, whereby evaluators are asked to score, on a given scale, the extent to which the individual displays these behaviours. This quantitative feedback is often displayed in the form of graphs, showing comparative scores from different feedback groups. This helps to clearly illustrate areas of improvement to the employee being evaluated so they can understand strengths and weaknesses – making adjustments where necessary. The feedback is then interpreted by an internal/external facilitator who then issues development goals and sets action plans. 360 degree feedback provides a broader perspective of employees’ work effort. Bruce Sevy [University of Boston, 2009] claims, “It frees you as an individual and as an organisation from being held

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