Performance Management Training

Enhancing Review and Appraisal Systems

Background

A major UK defence contractor faced a significant challenge with their Performance Review and Appraisal Systems. Although the business regarded the Performance Development and Review (PDR)  process as a vital tool for focussing efforts and driving higher performance, feedback from middle and first-line managers revealed that the system was often viewed as a mere “tick box” exercise, adding little to no value.

The organisation’s workforce was highly diverse, encompassing a wide range of roles from skilled labourers to scientists. The organisation was subsequently comprised of a wide variety of cultures, working practices, and management styles across the business and its locations. Although the PDR process was intended to be consistent across the organisation, its implementation varied widely. Recognising the need for improvement, the contractor sought Emerge’s expertise to design and deliver a comprehensive performance management training programme that would help employees see the true value of actively participating in the process.

What We Did

To begin, we engaged with employees across the business to understand their attitudes toward the appraisal process and how performance was managed overall. It quickly became clear that the issue extended beyond just the PDR process—there was a broader need for improved performance management across the organisation. In some areas, managers were not addressing poor performance effectively, if at all.

Based on our findings, we recommended  a two-module approach to performance management training:

Conducting an Effective PDR:

This module was designed for managers who were newer to the role, focusing on how to conduct performance reviews that were meaningful and impactful.

Tools and Techniques for Maximising Performance:

This module targeted more experienced managers, equipping them with advanced strategies for driving and maintaining high performance within their teams.

The client agreed with this approach, and we collaborated with key stakeholders to design two stand-alone training events tailored to the specific needs of the business. A pilot programme was conducted, and after gathering feedback, we made adjustments to the training materials before rolling out the courses across the entire organisation.

The Outcomes

The performance management training programme delivered several key outcomes:

Positive Feedback:

Anecdotal feedback from delegates was overwhelmingly positive. Managers who attended subsequent courses reported that they were successfully applying the principles covered in the training.

Improved Objectives:

A significantly higher number of objectives selected for “dip checks” from the PDR system were found to be SMARTER (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) and more closely aligned with business goals after the training.

Timely PDR Completion:

The HR team observed a marked increase in the number of PDRs completed within the appropriate timeframes, indicating that managers were taking the process more seriously.

Increased Employee Satisfaction:

Subsequent employee surveys showed a notable increase in satisfaction with performance reviews and the overall PDR process.

Sustained Excellence:

Emerge consistently exceeded the agreed average satisfaction score of 7 out of 10 for the training modules throughout the three-year contract period.

Proactive Performance Management:

There was anecdotal evidence that performance issues were now being more proactively addressed by managers, contributing to a more effective and engaged workforce.

Overview

The performance management training programme designed and delivered by Emerge played a crucial role in transforming the perception and implementation of the PDR process within this UK defence contractor. By equipping managers with the skills and tools needed to conduct meaningful performance reviews and address performance issues proactively, the organisation was able to foster a culture of continuous improvement and accountability.

If your organisation is facing similar challenges, consider investing in performance management training. At Emerge, we specialise in tailoring training programmes to meet the unique needs of your business, ensuring that your performance management systems drive real results.

For more information or to discuss your specific needs, please contact us:

Visit Us: 54b High Street, Fareham, Hampshire PO16 7BG

Call Us: +44(0) 1329 820580

Email Us: info@emergeuk.com