Annual Performance Reviews

Freie Universität Berlin uses annual reviews as a structured form of communication. They are intended to provide a structured space to better identify the skills and potential of individual employees and to highlight any training or support needs that they may have.

A further aim is to encourage an open dialogue between supervisors and staff based on mutual trust and appreciation of each other’s work, improving communication and helping employees and their managers to work together more effectively. Based on each employee’s abilities and requirements, they can also be used for career planning and to identify pathways for professional development. The annual review, as the name suggests, takes place yearly and should not be seen as a routine catch-up, but rather as a dialogue covering specific topics. The appraisal asks employees and supervisors to think together about tasks and how they are organized; the supervisor’s management style and the working relationship; and individual training and development requirements. To support the process, the university offers informational events for staff along with ongoing training for managers and facilitators. The latter represent an interface between employees and central administration/management. The long-term principle guiding the review process is to encourage a culture of openness and transparency, along with a working environment that facilitates staff wellbeing and development.

You can find more information about the annual review (e.g., the policy and guidelines on the process) on the Occupational Health Management and Personnel Development websites. Their staff are also available to help with any questions you may have. 

 

 

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