What is a Performance Development Plan?
Performance Development Plans (PDPs) are an effective way for employers to assess and develop their employees’ workplace skills, capabilities, and objectives. They monitor employee performance while setting objectives and performance targets that the employer and employee agree upon through collaboration. The plan involves setting goals and objectives for the employee to achieve, along with performance evaluations and feedback sessions.
Purpose of a Performance Development Plan
The purpose of a PDP is threefold.
First, it helps employers measure the performance of their employees. This involves tracking progress and assessing progress made against goals and objectives set in the PDP. This helps to ensure that employees are meeting and exceeding expectations, and that employer goals are being met.
Second, it helps employers and employees calibrate expectations and goals. By setting shared goals and objectives in the PDP, employers and employees can ensure that progress is being made and that expectations are being met.
Third, it enables employers to provide feedback and recognize accomplishment. Through PDPs, employers are able to provide meaningful feedback to their employees about their performance, as well as reward those who have achieved marked successes.
Components of a Performance Development Plan
Performance Development Plans typically include the following components:
- Goals and Objectives: Goals should be clearly defined, and objectives should be specific and measurable in terms of the employee’s progress.
- Progress Reports: Reports outlining progress made against the set goals and objectives should be included in the PDP.
- Performance Evaluations: The PDP should include regular assessments of the employee’s performance in the workplace.
- Feedback Sessions: The PDP should also include regular feedback sessions between the employer and employee to ensure that expectations are being met.
- Rewards: Employee rewards programs should be included in the PDP for employees who exceed expectations.
FAQs
How does a PDP contribute to employee career growth?
Performance Development Plans contribute to the career growth of employees in numerous ways. Firstly, by setting specific goals to work towards, employees are given the opportunity to improve their skills and knowledge. As employees progress through their PDP, they can strive to reach objectives and eventually surpass these objectives.
Is personal development planning and succession planning the same?
No, personal development planning and succession planning are not the same. Personal development planning focuses on the development of an individual employee and their performance, while succession planning focuses on preparing employees to fill leadership roles.