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How long should an employee self evaluation be?

Can I say this on an employee's evaluation?

  • I have a very quiet employee who keeps to his/herself. He/She is very good at their job and always does what they are told. But one thing I want to say on their evaluation is it would be nice if he/she stepped out of their comfort zone once in a while. We have a start up type environment, and most employees voice opinions, and ideas freely. I know this employee is smart and could contribute, but they are frankly too shy. How should I go about noting this concern on his/her evaluation? I don't think as a boss I can force someone to speak their mind.

  • Answer:

    This is a legitimate concern. I'd address it as a growth opportunity on the eval. not as a criticism. Every organization needs to see growth in contribution and capacity in all employees, it's how productivity grows and innovation is nurtured. I imagine the employee is a strong introvert, you will not be able to change this strong personality preference. Consider asking the employee to complete a Meyers Briggs personality type assessment as part of a development program. Strong introversion often results in capable, "steady" performance who often stagnate in their career progression in my experience. You might want to do a bit of research yourself on Myers Briggs types and management tools for each personality variant. Astrobuf

Bill J at Yahoo! Answers Visit the source

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Well, first, don't wait until the evaluation to bring it up. Nothing on an evaluation should come as a surprise. Maybe at the next staff meeting, when others are voicing ideas, specifically draw her out and ask "Sarah, what do you think about this situation?" And, then if she does well, praise her publicly. If it is close to the time for the evaluation, then I would make it as positive as you can. Write something like "Sarah is very skilled and a solid contributor to our team. I would like for others in the group to learn from her, so I encourage her to share her skills and ideas with others. Ways she can do this are to: lead a brainstorming session, develop a training program on (subject x), or introduce her latest projects quarterly during staff meetings." Sounds like she needs to be drawn out of her shell a little.

Lauren F

That's nice to hear that a boss values its employees opinion. I think its quite alright to let them know, that their opinions are valued and that you would appreciate any input in the near future.

getagrip

I think the evaluation should stick strictly to work performance issues, not personality traits, especially if it does not impact the work for which they were hired. If they are doing a good job, and you would like their input, ask for it. At a later and separate time, you may want to address the issue with them by asking what you could do to make them feel comfortable enough to contribute opinions.

Piggiepants

I wouldn't put it in writing, they may take it the wrong way. If anything ask them for ideas casually. If they're not good in groups ask in private, or take a few people out to lunch. etc.

jay

You could say listen you are a great worker and I notice that you are very reserved in most situations, however, I am also aware that you are very bright and I feel that you may have some great ideas to contribute here in this facility. I would welcome any ideas you may have personally if you would feel more comfortable telling me vs a group.

Radtech1996

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