Based on my five decades of HRD working experiences in various MNCs (Australian, European, Japanese), GLCs (Petronas, Malaysia Airlines), and the universities (public & private institutions), that while productivity can be defined as a measure of output relative to input - usually the amount of work done in a particular period of time - performance cannot be so easily quantified. According to Cambridge Dictionary defines performance as “how well a person does a piece of work or an activity”. In most cases , this does not come down to efficiency alone, although this will likely be a factor. Performance can be understood in three broad ways; (1) “Task Performance” - how effectively someone carries out the core activities of their role; (2) “Contextual Performance” refers to supporting colleagues & contributing to the wider organization beyond day to day responsibilities; (3) "Adaptive Performance" reflects how well staff respond to change, learn, support innovation.
I remember to start by defining what our organization means by performance before we decide which measures to use. I urged my colleagues and line managers that “Measures usually focus on what employees achieve and how. HR manager's performance might be assessed not only through sales and customer outcomes, but also our compliance with legal and regulatory requirements." HR has a key role to play in supporting line managers to have effective conversations with employees. Fear often prevents managers from engaging in meaningful honest performance discussions.
I believe an effective performance management process is critical for a business's long term success. When done well, performance measurement can support better individual and organizational outcomes. Ehen done poorly, it can have the opposite effect. By defining assessing and improving performance is a challenge HR professionals are well equipped to tackle - starting with the right mindset & a good conversation or two. We would focus on how the work is affecting the business, how it links back to SMART objectives, whether they are on track or anything they need support.
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