Ratee preferences concerning performance management and appraisal

A diverse sample of 265 employees was surveyed for ratee preferences concerning seven performance management and appraisal issues. Research questions were formulated on appraisal source, feedback issues, and the performance management process. Results indicated that subjects most trusted their immediate supervisor as an accurate source for their appraisal and that they preferred having prior knowledge of their supervisor's expectations, receiving ongoing informal feedback throughout the appraisal period, and receiving formal appraisals at least twice a year. Subjects expressed preferences for developmentally oriented appraisals that were based mostly on the results of work. Preferences were not moderated by ratee experience or gender. Implications for human resource development professionals are discussed.