In my opinion, one of the biggest wastes of management time are annual performance reviews. I know, I know that is heresy. “Mike, isn’t it true we need let our staff know where they stand? Where they can improve?” you ask. Yes, every single day. Each and every day your direct reports should know where they stand. Reviews are an institutionalized exercise to overcome bad management. You know, the guys that never get involved in what is happening and stay in their offices.
I do these reviews, because it is part and parcel of the bonus or merit raise process, but they are a waste of time, encourage fear, and cause people to leave companies because the marginally competent managers gave them an unfair, low rating.
No, I think reviews are ridiculous, but I do them.
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What do you think?