What do you do if your global organization's performance evaluations lack fairness and impartiality?

1 Identify Bias

Begin by collecting evidence of the perceived unfairness in your performance evaluations. Look for patterns or inconsistencies in how you and your colleagues are assessed. Are certain achievements overlooked? Are evaluations based on unclear criteria or subjective opinions rather than measurable outcomes? By identifying specific instances of bias, you can build a case for discussing the issue with your superiors or human resources department. Remember, it's crucial to approach this diplomatically and with a focus on seeking improvement rather than assigning blame.

2 Seek Clarification

Once you've identified potential biases, request a meeting with your supervisor or the human resources department to discuss your concerns. During this conversation, seek clarification on the evaluation criteria and how they apply to your role. Ask for examples of how to meet or exceed these standards in the future. It's important to communicate openly and constructively, expressing your commitment to professional growth and your desire for a fair assessment process.

3 Propose Solutions

After discussing your concerns, propose potential solutions that could enhance the fairness of the performance evaluations. Suggest implementing more objective criteria, introducing peer reviews, or providing additional training for evaluators to recognize and mitigate unconscious bias. By offering concrete ideas, you demonstrate your proactive approach to problem-solving and your investment in the company's success.

4 Cultivate Advocacy

Building relationships with colleagues and mentors within the organization can be beneficial. These individuals can provide support, offer advice, and potentially advocate on your behalf. A mentor who understands the company's culture and evaluation system can guide you in improving your performance and navigating the appraisal process more effectively. Additionally, strong professional relationships may lead to more allies who can corroborate your contributions and achievements during evaluations.

5 Reflect and Adapt

Take time to reflect on the feedback you receive, even if it feels unfair. Consider whether there are areas where you can improve or adapt to better align with the company's expectations. Self-improvement is a continuous process, and demonstrating a willingness to grow can positively influence future evaluations. Keep an open mind and use the experience as an opportunity for personal and professional development.

6 Document Progress

Finally, make it a habit to document your accomplishments and progress throughout the year. Keep records of completed projects, positive feedback from clients or colleagues, and any additional responsibilities you take on. This documentation will serve as valuable evidence in your next performance evaluation, helping you make a strong case for a fair and accurate assessment of your work.