Using appraisal training role plays.
Appraisal training role plays help to bridge the gap between learning and doing. Be careful though. If you’re going to incorporate role play into an appraisal training course, be sure to prepare the activity well. Role plays work best if the exercises actually relate to the real situations your appraisers will experience during the performance appraisal process.
Key tips for incorporating role plays into appraisal training courses
- Develop role play scenarios that relate to reality of your business operation.
- Base the appraisal role plays on real job descriptions of employees in your business.
- Ensure the role play scenarios are realistic by basing them on characters that mirror the roles and behaviours of your employees.
- Generate role play scenarios that your appraisers may actually experience.
- Ensure the role play characters have enough ‘issues’ for delegates to get their teeth into.
- Ensure each appraisal role play has clear learning points and objectives.
- Decide beforehand if you want every delegate to participate or you will make the exercises voluntary.
- Will the role plays be one to one? If so, what will the rest of the class be doing at the time?
- If a number of appraisal role plays are taking place at the same time, will you need additional appraisal training staff?
- Build in time for a thorough debrief after each role play.
Top tip for running appraisal role plays
Run the role plays in groups of three; appraiser, employee and observer. Use a delegate to observe in each group. This cuts down on the need for extra staff and involves delegates more in the feedback process.
Download this essential Performance Appraisal Guide. A handy list of the key actions to take when preparing for the appraisal, during the appraisal meeting and throughout the year.
