Seven top tips for writing an inclusive job specification and description
Companies that are serious about fostering an inclusive work environment should begin by evaluating the very first interaction a job seeker has with their organisation: the job description and specification. According to a report from McKinsey, businesses that embrace diversity are 36% more likely to have better financial performance than their less diverse counterparts. “This is why it’s important organisations focus on writing inclusive job descriptions and specifications to attract a broader pool of talent,” said Chris Willsher, Regional Director at Reed.To explore how businesses can craft more inclusive job descriptions, we spoke with recruitment experts across Reed, who shared actionable strategies for making job postings resonate with a more diverse audience.1. Avoid gendered languageThe language used in job descriptions can significantly impact who applies. Research shows certain words and phrases may discourage people from underrepresented groups, particularly women, from applying. Words like "aggressive" and "dominant" are often associated with male stereotypes and can subtly alienate female candidates. Chris emphasised the importance of being mindful of gendered language, adding that employers can inadvertently signal that their culture aligns more with male stereotypes. “Words like 'collaborative,' 'inclusive,' and 'supportive' tend to appeal to all genders,” he said, “whereas terms like 'competitive' or 'dominant' may inadvertently deter women or non-binary individuals for applying for your roles."He suggested using a language decoding tool to help identify biased language such as this one, or even the free version of ChatGPT to identify any words that may need to be neutralised.2. When it comes to experience and qualifications – use inclusive languageCompanies often ask for extensive qualifications or specific years of experience in job descriptions, which can disproportionately discourage women and minority candidates. According to research from LinkedIn, women apply for jobs only if they meet 100% of the qualifications, whereas men will apply if they meet about 60%.Michelle Topley, Permanent Recruitment Consultant in Reed’s Norwich office, in the UK, advises organisations, where possible, to rethink how they frame qualifications.“Where possible, it’s important hiring managers focus on the skills and competencies needed to succeed in the role, rather than creating strict list of requirements,” she said.“You need to really ask yourself if a qualification is 100% necessary for the vacancy you have, or is it just on your nice-to-have wish list?“Don’t get me wrong, there are roles that need certain qualifications, especially in the legal field that I recruit for, but in the current climate where skills gaps are prevalent, you need to think about upskilling – can you train this person to do the job? So many talented people won’t even apply if they don’t tick every one of your boxes.”3. Promote flexible working optionsFlexible work arrangements are more important than ever for candidates, especially those balancing caregiving responsibilities or dealing with other personal challenges. Advertising flexible work options prominently in job descriptions can open the door to a more diverse talent pool.Shaq Hills, a Business Manager – Practice Specialist based in Reed’s Reading branch, in the UK, specialises in accountancy and finance practice recruitment. He said companies which are truly committed to inclusion need to make sure job specifications and descriptions reflect that you really understand how diverse individuals have different needs.He said: “Not every business can offer flexible working, but most can have a stab at offering some form of flexibility. By doing this you are highlighting that as a business you are committed to employee wellbeing, by offering a ‘positive’ work-life balance.“This is a major draw, particularly for women, older workers and those with disabilities. If you offer it, make it a prominent feature."4. Remove bias in job titlesJob titles can often carry hidden biases, which may prevent certain groups from applying. Titles like "salesman" or "chairman" reflect outdated, male-centric norms, while titles such as "guru" or "rockstar" - not that we recruit for many rockstars - may skew younger and discourage older applicants from applying.Rebecca Moore, Business Manager for the Northampton Reed office, in the UK, said neutral job titles that don’t encourage bias and attract as many candidates as possible to your job are vital.She said: “Some job titles are simply outdated, and anything with the word ‘man’ on the end should certainly not be entertained. They need to be clear; do exactly what it says on the tin, and welcome people from all walks of life.“A great example of this is the job title 'software engineer' – it really is neutral and widely understood in the tech space. If you were trying to be more vibrant and out there you may want to call the role 'coding ninja' – but you must really think hard about it as something like this may alienate potential candidates who feel they don’t fit into the cultural stereotype that the word ‘ninja’ signifies.”5. Include your commitment to diversityExplicitly stating a company’s commitment to EDI&B in job descriptions signals to candidates that an organisation values a wide range of perspectives and experiences. A simple paragraph outlining your EDI&B initiatives or your dedication to creating an inclusive environment can make a significant impact on potential applicants.London-based Area Manager and public sector HR recruiter, Bukola Odofin, is an advocate of company’s having a clear employee value proposition that fully embodies a company’s culture, goals and commitments.She said: "Your commitment to diversity shouldn’t just be a vague statement at the bottom of the job description, it should be part of your employee value proposition.“This proposition should be woven into the job and clearly highlighted in any description or specification that is written. On top of this, where possible clearly define how the vacancy contributes to building an inclusive environment within your company and mention any specific inclusion and diversity initiatives you have."6. Encourage applications from underrepresented groupsSometimes, simply encouraging people from underrepresented groups to apply can broaden the pool of candidates. Job postings can include phrases like, “We encourage candidates from diverse backgrounds to apply,” which can reassure applicants that the company genuinely values diversity.Chris Willsher, Regional Director at Reed, said one way of encouraging applications from underrepresented sectors is to advertise roles on platforms which are popular with individuals from those groups.“You can’t attract underrepresented groups to your roles without highlighting your commitment to diversity on your website and in job descriptions, and offering training programmes, internships, and mentorship opportunities aimed at underrepresented individuals,” he said.“Another way of encouraging applications is to promote employee referrals from diverse backgrounds and provide unconscious bias training for hiring managers to ensure a fair recruitment process. These strategies help create an inclusive environment that attracts a wide range of applicants.”7. Highlight personal development opportunitiesInclusive job descriptions should also highlight growth opportunities within a company. When businesses emphasise that they support employee development and provide clear career pathways, they attract candidates who not only want a job but want to belong to a workplace that invests in their future.“If you really want to demonstrate you value your people you need to really emphasise your commitment to learning and growth,” said Hayley Bee, Technology Practice Lead in Newcastle’s Reed office, in the UK.She added: “I specialise in technology recruitment where skill shortages are rife, so by highlighting that you invest in your employees’ development on both a personal and professional level, you can really show that you value your people.“Candidates from marginalised backgrounds do look for signs that a company will offer them room to grow and flourish, particularly if they’ve been in previous work environments where this hasn’t been the case."Crafting inclusive job descriptions is not a one-time effort. It requires ongoing reflection, feedback, and refinement. The way you write your job description sends a powerful message about your company, meaning you need to ensure the message you are sending out is one that demonstrates you value inclusion.If you’re looking to hire, our network of specialist recruiters can assist you in creating job descriptions to reach a wide pool of talent for your role. Get in touch with one of our experts today.
Top tips for helping employees manage ADHD at work
People with ADHD will, more often than not, have challenges in the workplace, which may lead to them leaving a job. However, with tailored support and understanding around their strengths and talents, they are likely to flourish and become a great asset to your organisation.It’s important to remember that everyone with ADHD is different, and the condition affects people in different ways, but they have the same broad range of skills, interests and intelligence as the rest of society. Open communication with your employees is key so that you can find out what support would help them most.What is ADHD?ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition which affects brain structure and neurotransmission, which is the way in which messages are communicated around the brain and how different areas of the brain are activated.It has three core traits which affects people with differing degrees:InattentionImpulsivenessHyperactivityTraits of ADHD are present from childhood, but recently, an increasing number of adults are being diagnosed with ADHD for the first time, as the condition becomes more widely understood. Even without an official diagnosis, which can take years to obtain, employers have a duty of care to their employees and must offer reasonable adjustments.A review by the Attention Deficit Disorder Association found that adults with ADHD are nearly 60% more likely to be let go from a job role, 30% more likely to have chronic or ongoing employment challenges, and three times more likely to quit a job.So how can you support your employees with ADHD?Promote awareness and understandingEducating the wider workforce about ADHD can help create an inclusive environment which better understands the needs of neurodivergent employees. For your senior leadership team and managers, consider hosting training sessions or workshops to help you and your workforce understand ADHD and how neurodivergent traits impact people in the workplace.This awareness can reduce stigma and encourage open conversations that can lead to increased empathy, support and cohesion at work. This way, your employees with ADHD can adopt strategies that work for their neurotype.Encourage regular check-insEncourage regular check-ins where employees can express any challenges relating to their ADHD. When a colleague has ADHD, it’s important to understand that they intend to get tasks done in a timely manner, however, there are obstacles that might be getting in their way.Time can be a challenge for someone with ADHD, which affects their perception of how long something will take them, and also can cause them to overestimate the length of time until a deadline. Those employees with ADHD may benefit from the routine of regularly check-ins to help keep them on track and accountable. Without these interactions with their managers or team leaders, they may unintentionally lose their way on certain tasks. This is especially true for tasks that offer no reward, novelty or interest, or have many steps to them.Implement flexibilityFlexibility can be crucial for employees with ADHD. It takes time and patience to understand their needs and you have to get to know them as people to figure out what strategies truly work for them to help them thrive in their job role.Consider options such as remote work, flexible hours and locations, and if possible, adjustable deadlines. These arrangements allow employees to work when they feel most productive and help to minimise distractions.People with ADHD can meet workplace demands in an environment that helps them focus, stay on task, and be productive.Create a structured environmentA structured work environment can greatly benefit employees with ADHD. This type of environment will help them establish routines and set clear expectations of what is expected of them.Use project management and technology tools to help them break tasks into manageable steps and encourage the use of calendars and reminders to stay organised.There are a number of apps which can assist people with ADHD and other neurodivergent conditions that impact executive function: i.e. working memory, attention, time management, organisation, planning and prioritisation, self-regulation, task initiation and completion, and self-monitoring.However, not every app works for everyone, so be open to trying multiple options. Some potentially helpful apps include:To do list reminders / scheduling apps (e.g. Todoist, Wunderlist, Trello)Aids if reading and writing are a problem (e.g. Captivoice.com, Google Docs Voice Typing, Apple Dictation)Blockers to eliminate distractions from social media / smart phones during tasks (e.g. Cold Turkey)White noise / ambient noise apps (e.g. Coffivity, Focusatwill)Note taking apps (e.g. To Do, Microsoft OneNote)Provide clear instructions and feedbackClear, concise instructions can help reduce overwhelm in employees with ADHD, allowing them to better focus on their tasks. The use of bullet points, visuals, or checklists to communicate expectations can be highly effective.Helping your employees with ADHD succeed doesn’t stop once changes in the workplace have been made to meet their needs. You may need to consider providing and receiving feedback so both parties know how the changes are working.As an employer, you can also tell them about their progress at work and the areas they might need to work on. Regular feedback helps them stay on track and make the necessary adjustments. Positive reinforcement can also increase motivation due to the brain’s response to reward, creating dopamine, which is a neurotransmitter that is unstable in people with ADHD.Encourage breaks and physical activityRegular breaks and physical activity can enhance focus and productivity, potentially reducing overwhelm or stress from their workload.Encourage employees to take short breaks to recharge, and consider implementing wellness programmes that promote physical activity, mindfulness, or relaxation techniques.Standing desks can benefit people with ADHD by allowing them to get up when they are feeling hyperactive and need to move. Fidget toys and footrests can also help them keep moving and the repetitive movements can help them stay regulated and focused. Walking meetings are also helpful for people with the hyperactive type of ADHD.By implementing active initiatives, businesses can create an environment that encourages and supports physical activity and regular movement, including fidgeting or ‘stimming’, ultimately improving employee satisfaction and leading to better retention rates.Set realistic goals and help them conquer tasksHelp employees set achievable goals that align with their strengths and capabilities. If you request something from an employee with ADHD, it can be helpful to ask them what timeframe makes sense for them to provide you with what you need.Once this is agreed, it may be helpful to ask for regular updates before the work is due just to make sure it remains at the top of their to-do list. Be constructive with any conversations around goals and don’t be afraid to discuss with them what will help them get work done in a timely fashion. Often, switching strategies helps keep professionals with ADHD engaged, through renewed novelty.If you notice mistakes are being made regularly, it could be that they haven’t processed the instructions properly. You can assist by asking what their preferred communication type is. People with ADHD often benefit from multiple forms, such as an email with action points following a phone call, or live captions.As with any employee, but especially those who thrive on reward, be sure to celebrate their accomplishments to help boost motivation and confidence.Useful resourcesADHD Works https://www.adhdworks.info/ADDitude magazine https://www.additudemag.com/Access to work ADHD https://www.adhd-360.com/access-to-work-adhd/Watch our webinar 'Empowering workplaces: navigating ADHD'.
The importance of ADHD understanding in education
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects both children and adults. It is characterised by symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity, which can significantly impact daily life and functioning.As a well-recognised condition, October is the month focused on increasing awareness and support available for those affected. The exact cause of ADHD is not fully understood, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors.It is a lifelong condition that you are born with, and is often diagnosed in childhood, however, as awareness increases, many adults now find themselves seeking diagnosis.ADHD classificationsThere are three clinically recognised types of ADHD, these are:Inattentive type (ADHD-I)Symptoms: Difficulty sustaining attention, easily distracted, forgetfulness, and trouble organising tasks. Individuals may appear daydreamy and slow to process information.Common in: More frequently diagnosed in girls, who may not exhibit hyperactive behaviours.Hyperactive-impulsive type (ADHD-HI)Symptoms: Excessive fidgeting, difficulty staying seated, talking excessively, and acting without thinking. These individuals are often described as being “on the go” and may struggle with waiting their turn.Common in: More commonly diagnosed in boys, who may display more hyperactive behaviours.Combine type (ADHD-C)Symptoms: A combination of inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive symptoms. This is the most common type of ADHD, where individuals exhibit a mix of both sets of symptoms.Common in: Both boys and girls, as it encompasses a broader range of behaviours.However, what you must remember is that though these are ‘typical’ definitions, each type presents differently in individuals. For example, a student might frequently lose their homework, forget to bring the necessary materials to class, and have difficulty following through on instructions. Or one of your teaching colleagues could find it challenging to manage their time effectively and miss important deadlines or forget they have meetings.Whatever the symptoms, in my experience, if supported with the right understanding, tools and resources, those with ADHD can thrive, just as well, if not more, than those that don’t have it.Why is raising awareness so important in education?Raising awareness of ADHD in schools is crucial for fostering an environment where both staff and students can thrive. When educators have a deeper understanding of ADHD, they are better equipped to provide the necessary support for students who live with the condition. Too often, these students face challenges that, without proper awareness, go unrecognised or misunderstood.Educators who are informed about ADHD can tailor their approach, offering strategies such as breaking down instructions, simplifying tasks, and providing more consistent feedback. These small yet impactful adjustments can make a significant difference in a student’s academic experience, ensuring they have the same opportunities for success as their peers.Another benefit of increased awareness is the potential for early identification of ADHD. Many students go through their school years undiagnosed, struggling with focus, organisation, or impulsive behaviours that are misinterpreted as behavioural issues. When ADHD is identified early, schools can work in partnership with parents and specialists to intervene before these struggles manifest into more significant academic or social difficulties. Early intervention gives students the tools they need to manage their symptoms effectively, which can positively impact their long-term success and mental well-being.Equally important is addressing the stigma that still surrounds ADHD - it’s getting better, but we are a long way off yet. Far too often, students with ADHD are labelled as ‘lazy’, ‘disruptive’ or ‘difficult’, when they’re grappling with neurological differences that affect their ability to concentrate and regulate their behaviour. Raising awareness helps dismantle these harmful stereotypes, replacing them with empathy and understanding.As schools become more inclusive and accepting of diverse learning needs, students with ADHD will feel more supported and less isolated. This shift in perspective not only benefits the individuals with ADHD but also enriches the school culture, creating a more compassionate and collaborative community.Beyond the classroom, raising awareness among students is just as vital. When pupils understand ADHD, particularly those who are diagnosed with it, they can better advocate for themselves. Self-awareness allows them to take charge of their learning, request the support they need, and develop coping strategies that can serve them throughout their educational journey and into adulthood. Empowering students in this way builds their confidence and fosters resilience.Ideas to help raise awareness in your schoolOctober is ADHD Awareness Month, a prime time for pupils and staff alike to focus on ADHD in your school or Trust.Why not celebrate the achievements of those with ADHD in an assembly, get an expert to come into school and explain what ADHD is to staff and pupils, perhaps you could encourage children to create a short play on the topic, or even write an essay or short story.Whatever you chose to do, remember that a school culture which embraces an understanding of ADHD ultimately becomes stronger, more compassionate, and better equipped to nurture every learner and staff member.Watch our webinar 'Empowering workplaces: navigating ADHD'.
Three tips for finding a job you’ll love
Take a moment to picture your ideal career…Is it the job you’re in now or were you just daydreaming about greener pastures in another role or company? If it’s the latter, don’t worry. We’ve all been there. Maybe you’re worried that you don’t have the right skills or experience to get the job you really want, or maybe you’re not even sure about what you want to be doing but you know it’s not this. Whatever the reason, we’re here to help. Here are just three tips from the Life's Work course hosted by Reed's Chairman and CEO, James Reed, which could help you find a job you’ll love (and Love Mondays). Know what you want (what you really, really want)It may seem obvious, but having a solid idea of what you want out of your career is the first step to getting there. It starts with understanding what your values, goals and strengths, and then using that knowledge to reflect on what careers you’ll really find fulfilling. What are your key skills and weaknesses? What tasks do you excel at (or dread doing)? And where do you really see yourself in the future?Armed with these answers, you’ll feel more confident that your next career move is the right, because it matches not just what you want out of your job, but out of your life too.Do your researchOne of the most challenging parts of changing jobs or careers is making sure you land in a sector that isn’t in decline. That means digging into current in-demand and stable sectors, such as AI or education, to see where your skills might fit.It’s also a good idea to look into the companies you’re interested in to see if your values align and if they’re financially stable. You won’t want to jump ship only to find yourself in a company you don’t like – or worse, that could lead to your job being at risk a few months down the line. Get networkingOr, as James Reed CBE puts it in his book, Life’s Work,– go to parties. The truth is the word ‘networking’ has become synonymous with things like sweaty palms at awkward social events and DMs from strangers on LinkedIn. But it doesn’t have to be that way.When you strip it down to its essentials, networking is really about connecting with people who can help you (and vice versa). It could mean going for coffee with a friend to pick their brains about a sector you’re interested in it could mean attending an event and just getting to know people, and yes, it could mean messaging semi-strangers on LinkedIn – which can actually be really effective if approached in the right way and remember to personalize your message. While this list is by no means exhaustive, it’s a great starting point for exploring what you want to do next. Are you looking to take the next step in your career? Search and apply for jobs in Switzerland now.
Who to promote: a guide for employers and managers
How does your business decide who to promote? Is career progression embedded within the workplace culture or is it done in line with employee tenure?The process of promotion should consider merit, potential, and alignment with organizational values. Meritocracy should be the cornerstone of any promotion strategy, rooted in a comprehensive evaluation of an individual's performance, skills, and contributions to the business. Tangible achievements such as key performance indicators, project outcomes, and leadership abilities, should guide this assessment.However, merit alone does not paint the full picture. It’s important to identify individuals with the capacity to grow, adapt, and innovate and those who demonstrate a hunger for learning, a willingness to take on new challenges, and a track record of exceeding expectations. Investing in the development of high-potential individuals is key to futureproofing your business.Promote those who show enthusiasm and excellencePromoting individuals who embody the core values and culture of your business reinforces a sense of purpose and belonging among employees. Beyond technical skills and performance metrics, assess candidates' alignment with your company's mission, vision, and ethics. It’s usually easy to spot those who both excel in their roles and show enthusiasm for the ethos of the business – these professionals are more likely to drive positive change and inspire their colleagues.There have been many conversations about extroverts and introverts in the workplace and the traits typical of both – some of which can sway employers to promote one group over another. Personality testing at the hiring stage or as part of professional development, can help identify individuals with the potential to go further within the business, but they can also lead to bias, so should be balanced with traditional interviews and employee performance.Diversity and inclusion (D&I) should also be central considerations when promoting. Ensure opportunities are accessible to individuals from all backgrounds, regardless of gender, ethnicity, age, or socio-economic status. Actively seek out diverse talent, create inclusive promotion criteria, and address systemic barriers that may impede the advancement of underrepresented groups.Jobseekers actively look for employers that can evidence their commitment to D&I, so it pays to promote this on all channels, including in your job adverts. Lip service is not enough – professionals will not stay long in an environment they perceive as old-fashioned and out of touch. Embracing diversity strengthens your talent pool and builds on your reputation as a progressive and inclusive employer.Employees should have a clear understanding of the criteria, process, and timeline for promotion. Provide regular feedback on their performance and development areas, empowering them to actively pursue growth opportunities. Also, establish mechanisms for staff to raise concerns or grievances related to the promotion process.Deciding who to promoteLook for those who demonstrate both competence and potential for leadership and growth. Here are some key attributes to consider:Job performanceConsistent achievement of goals and targets - high-quality work output, ability to meet deadlines, and manage workload effectively.Leadership skillsDemonstrated ability to motivate and inspire others - effective communication skills, both verbal and written, capacity to delegate tasks and empower team members.Problem-solving abilitiesAptitude for critical thinking and analytical reasoning - proven track record of resolving complex issues, willingness to take initiative and propose innovative solutions.AdaptabilityAbility to thrive in changing environments - flexibility to adjust strategies and tactics as needed, openness to feedback and willingness to learn new skills.Emotional intelligenceEmpathy towards colleagues and clients - skill in managing interpersonal relationships, self-awareness, and ability to regulate emotions.Strategic thinkingUnderstanding of the broader organizational goals and objectives - the capacity to develop long-term plans and strategies, skill in prioritizing tasks, and allocating resources effectively.Team collaborationTrack record of working well within a team - ability to foster a positive and inclusive work environment, willingness to support colleagues and share knowledge.Continuous learningCommitment to personal and professional development - eagerness to seek out new challenges and opportunities for growth, willingness to invest time and effort in acquiring new skills.Ethical conductIntegrity in decision-making and actions - respect for company values and ethical standards, accountability for own behavior and its impact on others.Industry knowledgeUnderstanding of the sector in which the business operates - awareness of industry trends and developments, ability to apply industry knowledge to drive business success.Final thoughtsPromotion creates opportunities for leaders to strengthen their business and should therefore be seen as an investment. No one should ever feel pressured to take on the greater responsibility that comes with promotion, but providing avenues for those who want the challenge is a win-win situation.If you are looking for new talent for your teams, or considering your next career move, get in touch with one of our specialist consultants today.
Performance reviews: how to use them efficiently and effectively
Employers are not required by law to conduct appraisals and reviews, but they do benefit all parties. If all the feedback you give your team members is through one annual appraisal, you’re doing your team a disservice and aren’t unlocking their full potential. Feedback should be far more regular to match the fast-paced environments we now work in.The value of appraisalsRecently, appraisals have been considered a dying practice by many employers who deem it a tick-box exercise with little value. However, when done well, and more frequently, these reviews are crucial for the development of your employees and have multiple benefits for both parties:Ensuring employees understand their role and your expectations for themDetermining to what extent employees are meeting those expectationsProviding support and having an honest two-way discussionAcknowledging and rewarding good performanceNurturing your employees’ career progressionIncreasing engagement and longevityA manager’s responsibility is to empower their people to do their work to the best of their ability and nurture their successes. Performance reviews are a chance to engage team members with regular, one-to-one, honest discussions. It’s not only a chance for the professional to receive feedback from you, but an opportunity for them to raise any concerns they have and to tell you what support they might need.Without appraisals, employees will still be evaluated, but without the same transparency and objectivity. It will simply exclude employees from the process. This could make them feel out of control of their own futures and unaware of what they can do to improve. Providing honest feedback, even if it is a hard conversation to have, allows them the opportunity to upskill themselves and for you to show you want to help them improve.Conducting a successful performance reviewFirstly, all parties involved need to understand the process and why it’s being conducted in the first place. What do you want to achieve from this meeting? Appraisals need to be structured to be effective. Performance template examples, like the template we have designed, can help you with this.Every appraisal should:Be as regular as your team needs it to be– The regularity of your performance reviews will depend entirely on your company, team and management style. With most companies changing much more rapidly, and employees learning in more fast-paced environments, annual appraisals will not be as useful as a more regular performance review. When it comes to feedback, little and often is the way to go.You might decide that once a month is best for your team members. However, it’s best to be flexible, and if monthly reviews aren’t working for individuals, try checking in with them more regularly than others. It’s all about the employee and your own judgement.Provide effective feedback– Fundamentally, all feedback must be honest and constructive. Without honesty, it will have no value to the person receiving it – positive or negative.Whether their performance has been excellent or less than satisfactory, you need to advise them on the next steps they should take to improve or grow further. All feedback must focus on the future and how your employee can move forward, rather than dwelling on past failures or becoming complacent following their successes.Set SMART goals– One of the most common mistakes employers make is setting vague goals. Employers must provide their employees with SMART (specific, measurable, attainable, realistic, time-bound) goals, that they can focus on achieving ahead of their next review. For example, you may want one of your employees to ‘make more sales’ but this doesn’t give them guidance or direction on how to achieve what you want them to.To turn this into a smart goal, it might become something like: ‘make eight sales a month, for six months, until you reach 48 sales by the end of this year’. Outlining the main goal, and the smaller steps they need to take to achieve their goals by a set deadline is much better for motivation and productivity. It’s also easier to measure and help them to stay on track to achieve their overall goal.Be a rewarding experience for employees– Appraisals should be an experience employees look forward to. They should leave feeling that their hard work and progress since the last review has been acknowledged and rewarded by their employer. If the response hasn’t been so positive, they should leave with an awareness of how to improve, through honest and constructive feedback and SMART goals.Be personalised to individuals– Each member of your team will have a different way of working and different needs. This should be accounted for in your performance reviews. Ideally, you would have a standardised performance review template that can be adapted to each person in your team. A one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t always work.If any of your team members have health issues which are affecting their work, take that into consideration and do your best to support them. It is illegal to discriminate against someone for their protected characteristics such as disabilities or neurodivergence.Likewise, be mindful of any personal issues your employee may be struggling with that may have a short-term impact on their performance. You must provide reasonable adjustments where possible to help them improve their performance.Download our free performance review template to help you ensure your next review has a positive impact on your employees.