Recruitment & Appraisals

Recruitment, Discrimination & Equal Opportunities

Political correctness is not just an ideal it is the law when it comes to recruitment. How you advertise the post, how you select clients for interview and how you finally select the applicant can give rise to potential discrimination claims if you do not follow the correct policies and procedures.

Sadly, there are now even "professional" applicants from minority groups who earn a living from applying for jobs then bringing a claim for discrimination if the don't get an interview or an offer. Whilst most of these spurious claims can be overcome there is still a cost to the company of defending such claims, win or lose.

A clearly laid out recruitment and equal opportunities policy together with the right procedures can substantially reduce the risk of a company falling foul of the Equal Opportunities legislation.

What are Employment Appraisals?

Appraisals are basically you talking to your employees and agreeing appropriate objectives. Establishing clear, defined objectives helps you define a clear direction for your business and allows the employees to focus on specific tasks so that everyone works together to ahieve those company goals.

A structured appraisal system can help employees feel that their good work is recognised and that they are valued. It can also provide the opportunity to discuss any weaknesses or problems they may have, and to come up with solutions.

It sounds obvious when you say it but so many companies fail because they forget to talk to their staff and tell them what is expected of them and similarly fail to listen to employees' ideas. With their experience on the job they can sometimes come up with efficiencies that you might not have thought of.

Why are Appraisals necessary?

Firstly they are best practice. Even if you are a very small company, making effective use of appraisals can improve your business performance and help you assess just how well your employees are working to achieve your goals.

Furthermore, if you are looking to gain accreditation with Investors In People, any BS kitemarks or any industry specific awards then you are almost certain to need an established appraisal system.

We can provide you with the required forms, procedures and checklists to conduct effective apraisals for your employees in your business

See also company handbooks, employment contracts and service agreements