Which statement best describes how to prepare for a performance discussion?

Which statement best describes how to prepare for a performance discussion?

• A. Rely on impressions and avoid data.
• B. Prepare with data, set clear goals, acknowledge strengths, offer coaching resources, schedule follow-up.
• C. Only discuss salary adjustments.
• D. Hold the discussion without planning.

Answer: (B)

Performance discussions are most effective when they are data-driven and action-focused. Using data to guide the conversation helps you speak to observable performance rather than impressions, making feedback fair and concrete. Setting clear goals gives the employee a target to work toward and makes progress measurable. Acknowledging strengths balances critique with encouragement and helps identify where the employee can excel. Offering coaching resources shows support and provides practical ways to improve. Scheduling a follow-up keeps momentum by checking in on progress and adjusting the plan as needed. Relying on impressions, focusing only on salary, or holding the discussion without planning all lead to biased, narrow, or unproductive conversations.

Performance discussions are most effective when they are data-driven and action-focused. Using data to guide the conversation helps you speak to observable performance rather than impressions, making feedback fair and concrete. Setting clear goals gives the employee a target to work toward and makes progress measurable. Acknowledging strengths balances critique with encouragement and helps identify where the employee can excel. Offering coaching resources shows support and provides practical ways to improve. Scheduling a follow-up keeps momentum by checking in on progress and adjusting the plan as needed. Relying on impressions, focusing only on salary, or holding the discussion without planning all lead to biased, narrow, or unproductive conversations.