A message from Marilyn Thompson, Associate Provost, Human Resources
- We are continuing with a flexible staff performance appraisal process for 2021
- A modified appraisal form is now available
- The submission deadline has been extended to March 22
In December, you received a memo from James W.E. Rush, Vice-President, Academic & Provost announcing the changes to a more flexible performance appraisal process again this year. Staff employees can choose from one of two options for performance documentation for 2021:
- Completion of the standard Staff Confidential Appraisal form, or
- Completion of a new modified 2021 Staff Performance Summary form
Staff employees will notify managers of their preference for performance documentation.
The ratings included in either form will be based on actual performance, and there will be no minimum rating based on historical average (as was the case last year). In light of these changes, the deadline for finalizing performance documentation, and for ratings to be submitted to Human Resources, has been extended to March 22nd.
Earlier this month, the Provost’s Advisory Committee on Staff Compensation (PACSC) agreed that, in alignment with the established performance appraisal process, staff should have the opportunity to comment on their appraisal. As such, the modified form cannot be completed solely by managers. It is still recommended that managers and employees reflect and have at least one conversation as part of the performance appraisal process, which should happen prior to finalizing the chosen documentation.
For those who may be new to this annual process, the appraisal (standard or modified) is an essential component of staff performance management at Waterloo. Along with regular performance conversations, it also provides an opportunity to formally document achievements or expectations and identify areas where employees need extra support or professional development. The rating assigned is used for the annual merit program and the documentation provides central reference support for career advancement opportunities within Waterloo. As you prepare for the appraisal process, there are several employee resources and manager resources that may assist you.
We appreciate your understanding and flexibility in these times of continuous change. There have been great efforts and many great outcomes in 2021 and the performance appraisal process is a wonderful opportunity for managers to express gratitude and recognize our employees for their accomplishments.
Completed forms should be sent to the attention of Joan Kennedy, Manager, Benefits at joan.kennedy@uwaterloo.ca or hard copies sent to her attention at EC-1.
If you have any questions, please contact your HR Partner.