What is a performance appraisal?

A performance appraisal is defined as a systematic evaluation of an employee’s job performance and contribution to the organization. This process typically involves assessing an employee's work against pre-established criteria, which may include job-related competencies, responsibilities, and outcomes. The goal of a performance appraisal is multifaceted: it serves to provide feedback to employees about their performance, supports employee development, assists in goal setting, and is often tied to decisions related to promotions, raises, and training needs.

During a performance appraisal, managers and supervisors can identify strengths and areas for improvement, fostering a constructive dialogue that can help improve the overall efficiency and productivity of the organization. Furthermore, it provides a structured opportunity for both employees and supervisors to engage in discussions about performance expectations, professional development opportunities, and career advancement.

The other options do not accurately capture the essence or the structured nature of performance appraisals. A casual review by coworkers or an informal feedback session lacks the formality and systematic approach that characterizes a true performance appraisal. Similarly, a method for increasing employee workload does not reflect the intent of performance evaluations, which focus on assessing and enhancing performance rather than simply increasing demands on the employee.