Question

During which of the following steps in establishing a performance improvement plan should the manager clearly lay out the areas for improvement and the action plan?

a) Identifying the problem
b) Setting performance standards
c) Evaluating progress
d) Establishing goals

Answer 1

The areas for improvement and the action plan in a performance improvement plan should be laid out when establishing goals. This ensures that the goals are achievable, appropriate, and measurable.

Step-by-step explanation:

During the establishment of a performance improvement plan, the manager should clearly lay out the areas for improvement and the action plan during the stage of establishing goals. This is the point where both parties agree upon precise objectives and the initiatives to be undertaken to reach these goals. The manager's responsibility is to provide a comprehensible path that details the improvements expected and the steps needed to achieve them. This may include setting deadlines, providing resources, or detailing specific behaviors and skills that need enhancement. It is key that these goals are Achievable and appropriate, meaning they are realistic for the employee to attain and align with the overall objectives of the organization. Additionally, goals should be Measurable and motivational, which means progress should be easily tracked and should incentivize employee effort and engagement.