The term "BARS" in performance appraisal stands for what?

The term "BARS" in performance appraisal stands for "Behaviorally Anchored Rating Scales." This method is designed to enhance the objectivity and accuracy of performance evaluations by linking specific behaviors that are critical for job performance to numerical ratings. Using behaviorally anchored scales, evaluators assess an employee’s performance against these defined behaviors rather than relying solely on general traits or vague descriptions.

This approach increases the clarity of what constitutes effective or ineffective performance, providing a more consistent and fair framework for employee evaluations. It helps minimize subjectivity and bias in appraisals while ensuring that ratings are based on observable and measurable behaviors. By anchoring the scale with examples of effective and ineffective behaviors, organizations can help reviewers make more informed and objective assessments about employee performance.