Navigating Performance Evaluations in Challenging Times for Nonprofits

When nonprofits are facing a lot of hurdles, it is hard to focus on the basics of everyday management.  Performance Evaluations fall into this category.  We know everyone is working hard and goals may not be met because they simply can’t be right now.  But that’s not a reason to skip a performance evaluation.  If anything, in difficult times, they can be very useful.

First, acknowledge that goals may not have been met, or in some instances, have been far exceeded! The current environment has an impact on anyone’s ability to do their job and feel successful. Your team member may be overworked and overwhelmed or looking to expand skills to make themselves more effective.

Look at and talk through the previous goals. Which ones have significantly changed, which ones haven’t and which ones do you wish had changed? The performance evaluation is a designated time to look at successes and deal with frustrations and roadblocks.  While conversations happen throughout the year, don’t miss this opportunity to be intentional about what’s possible.

Set plans for moving forward. Maybe not for a full year, take it in shorter timeframes like quarterly or semi-annually. Plan an intentional review more frequently to reflect the changes in the environment and the continued pressures of the day-to-day work.

Include professional development. All of our workplaces are changing. Where do people need extra support to gain training or experience?

Finally, be honest about what is coming in the next year. How will the environment impact this person’s role and what are your expectations of success?
 
And remember, everyone gets a performance evaluation: Executive Director, Leadership Team, Staff and Board Members. If you haven’t done one in the past, now is the time to get started. Boundaries and communication are necessary when we are operating in a world of fear and chaos. Help everyone understand what can be controlled and what can’t be controlled, and how we’ll support each other through this.

Need support with performance evaluations? We offer that along with other consulting services. Learn more about our consulting services.