What is the primary objective of a performance appraisal interview?

The primary objective of a performance appraisal interview is to provide constructive feedback and set future goals. This process is essential for fostering employee development and enhancing overall organizational performance. During the interview, managers engage in a dialogue with employees about their strengths and areas for improvement, helping them understand how their performance aligns with organizational objectives.

In addition to delivering feedback, the appraisal interview serves as a platform for setting clear, achievable goals for the upcoming performance period. This goal-setting component is critical, as it contributes to the employee's growth, motivation, and engagement, aligning individual and organizational objectives. By focusing on constructive feedback and future aspirations, the appraisal interview becomes a developmental tool rather than merely a procedural task.

While evaluating managerial staff and determining salary increments are important elements of the performance management process, they are not the primary focus of the appraisal interview itself. Instead, these components often arise as consequences of the feedback and goal-setting discussions that take place during the interview.