What is a key characteristic of an effective performance appraisal?

• A. Focus only on recent behavior
• B. Include objective data and specific examples
• C. Rely solely on the manager's impression
• D. Compare every employee to the same standard

Answer: (B)

An effective performance appraisal is strongest when feedback is anchored in objective data and specific examples of observed performance. This approach provides verifiable evidence, reduces personal bias, and gives employees clear, actionable guidance. For example, citing exact metrics like meeting 95% of quarterly targets and pointing to particular projects where timely delivery or effective collaboration occurred makes the appraisal credible and useful for development. Relying only on recent behavior can miss longer-term trends, and basing judgments solely on a manager’s impression invites bias. Even with a common standard, feedback without objective data and concrete examples lacks a solid basis for justification and meaningful improvement.