The First-Time Manager’s Guide to Performance Appraisals

Chapter 3. Managers as Counselors

Counseling is the structured interaction between managers and their employees, with a keener focus on specific work-related problems. Its primary goal is to help employees achieve a maximum level of productivity in accordance with specified job duties, policies, and procedures. The process enables employees to examine their behavior, explore alternative ways of performing, and review the possible consequences of each alternative. In those instances when counseling proves insufficient, it may serve as a prelude to progressive disciplinary action.

To illustrate, let’s return to the scenario between Steve and Angie. As you recall, Steve overheard Angie speaking on her cell phone while helping a customer. He spoke ...