One of the most significant benefits of performance appraisals is that it offers a rare chance for a supervisor and subordinate to have “time out” for a one-on-one discussion of important work issues that might not otherwise be addressed.
Where performance appraisals are done well, both supervisors and subordinates have reported the experience as beneficial and positive.
Appraisals offer a chance to focus on work activities and goals, to identify and correct existing problems, and to encourage better future performance. Thus the performance of the whole organization is enhanced.
For many employees, an “official” appraisal interview may be the only time they get to have such exclusive, uninterrupted access to their supervisor!
The value of this intense and purposeful interaction between a supervisors and subordinate should not be underestimated.