Annual appraisals, which are mandatory in most healthcare organisations, are crucial for enhancing staff performance and embedding a culture of continuous improvement within teams. Appraisals can be usefully complemented by ongoing performance reviews, which support nurse managers and staff to identify and address issues in a timely manner. The term ‘performance management’ often has negative connotations, but it can be a powerful tool for staff development and positive learning experiences. This article supports nurse managers to understand how to adequately prepare for and conduct appraisals and performance reviews.

• The way in which nurse managers approach performance management, including annual appraisals and reviews, is paramount to the quality of patient care.

• Investing time in people is crucial for effective performance management.

• Appraisal meetings should be structured around a review of past performance and a discussion of future objectives.

• Regular reviews enable nurse managers and staff to identify and address performance issues as they arise.

• Open, constructive and respectful discussions can foster a positive work environment where staff feel valued and empowered.

Reflective activity

‘How to’ articles can help to update your practice and ensure it remains evidence-based. Apply this article to your practice. Reflect on and write a short account of:

• How this article might improve your practice when conducting annual appraisals and performance reviews.

• How you could use this information to educate nursing students or your colleagues on the appropriate techniques and evidence base to conduct annual appraisals and performance reviews.