Performance Management

Donna Schendel, our new Human Resources director, presented on the need for effective performance management, its characteristics, and its benefits.

The focus on positive elements of performance management put such activity in a much needed positive direction. Performance management needs to grow people so the team can grow together. Coaching, mentoring, regular communication, positive feedback should be emphasized and supported in all team activities. Training has so many opportunities to bring people together for a common purpose in such a human way. Leaders must do this in the service of others.

Relationships and communication are central to performance management. We cannot grow and grow together without knowing each other. We need to talk to know where we are going and why. We need to celebrate achievements. We need to tackle issues and overcome challenges together. I was glad to see so many friends in the room.

The case studies brought out discussion among the leaders in the room about key issues: such as staff personal interactions affecting work and conflict. Leaders in the room had different responses but the same general aim. Deborah turned the responses into a positive dialogue: dialogue being the essential element in finding positive resolutions. It even broke out into role play and ensuing hilarity. We need to have crucial conversations.

In the end, leadership is being a good person, being charitable to others. You need to encourage positive people and you need to respectfully support people causing unhealthy conflict.

The workshop was engaging, comprehensive and thought-provoking. It was a good starter for future dialogue on the most critical activity for the college as it grows and move forward.