Performance Conversations - by Christopher D Lee (Paperback)

About the Book

Learn how to replace outdated appraisals with a modern, evidence-based approach to managing performance.

Book Synopsis

There are three universal truths about traditional performance management: they are widely used, universally despised, and are known to be ineffective.

Performance Conversations offers a new model rooted in proven management science and tailored to today's workplace. Moving beyond ad hoc alternatives, this approach provides a unified framework for enhancing employee performance through continuous, manager-led practices. Like sliding the right key in a lock, performance conversations can open the door to unlimited possibilities. Dozens of ready-to-use templates and tools make the system practical, accessible, and easy to implement. Designed with today's workforce in mind, it aligns with the expectations of millennial and remote employees alike.

Perfect for HR leaders and team managers, this guide delivers a smart, actionable solution for improving performance without the frustration of traditional reviews.

Review Quotes

"Dr. Lee reminds us in Performance Conversations that relationships matter, trust is critical, and there is a significant difference between a Performance Conversation and performance review. An excellent overview for the first-time manager and experienced manager alike."-- "Jeffrey S. Brody, Chief Human Resources Officer, ManTech International Corporation"

"Dr. Lee shows us there's a better way to engage employees and it all starts with having regular and meaningful Performance Conversations."-- "Bryan Garey, Vice President for Human Resources, Virginia Tech"

"Performance Conversations is an extraordinary framework on the merits of why, how and what engaged leaders do to build, form and inspire teams to excellence."-- "Dr. James I. Van Zummeren, Deputy Director, Lejeune Leadership Institute, Marine Corps University"

"Performance Conversations masterfully outlines the role and development of effective questions as a critical tool in any performance improvement scenario. This is a must-read book for any successful manager or leader in the 21st century."-- "Dr. Edward E. "Ted" Raspiller, President, John Tyler Community College"

"Performance Conversations offers practical insight and interactive tools to empower managers to have transformative conversations with employees - a must-read for all managers and organization leaders who are truly invested in their employees."-- "Mary E. Hagood, Talent Management Consultant, Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond"

"A long-overdue game changer for anyone truly serious about performance improvement."-- "Dr. Ronald R. Sims, Floyd Dewey Gottwald Senior Professor, Raymond A. Mason School of Business, William & Mary"

"Dr. Lee transforms the modern leader's approach to Performance Conversations with a potent framework for asking the questions that truly engage employees, improve performance and ensure accountability."-- "Cy Wakeman, New York Times bestselling author of No Ego"

"The best leaders help their team members see their own value and coach them to achieve their potential. Simple, but not always easy, Performance Conversations delivers a systematic, research-based and reliable approach for building strong relationships, developing trust, instilling accountability and achieving results together."-- "Scott Edwards, Human Resources Manager, Anord Mardix"

About the Author

Dr. Christopher Lee is the chief human resources officer for William & Mary, the nation's second oldest university. Prior to this role, he was Associate Vice Chancellor for Human Resources for the Virginia Community College System, a network of 23 colleges, serving over 200,000 students in the commonwealth. He has over 25 years of experience as a chief human resources officer in higher education, having worked at both public and private institutions.