Make performance-management systems work for your company : Seven steps to successful outcomes

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to highlight the leadership route for managers to manage performance appraisal effectively. Design/methodology/approach – This paper outlines the importance of playing down personal feelings about individual employees, getting the best out of high and low performers, appreciating good work, connecting with subordinates, being a role model and making the most of diversity. Findings – This paper contends that performance management systems alone can never bring about optimum performance; they must be accompanied by sensitive and inspired leaders who treat their employees as individuals. Practical implications – Attention is drawn to the importance of converting managers into leaders who can deal easily and comfortably with diversity and the unforeseen. Social implications – Some of the challenges of dealing with the modern, diverse workforce have been highlighted. Originality/value – This paper advances the view that good leadership is a tool to balance structured performance management systems with the flexibility needed to tailor the systems to specific employee needs.