Is it a Training or Management Issue? Performance Management 101

DETERMINE IF IT’S A TRAINING ISSUE

Is the performance issue due to a lack of skill? Is so, training may be the answer. Apply the test, “could the person perform as desired with a gun to their head?” If the answer is yes, training is not the answer. You have a motivational or other issue.

What is the desired task performance (describe what is looks like)

What knowledge and skills are required to perform the task? (e.g. clear job expectations, how to perform the task)

Was the individual ever able to perform the task within acceptable standards? (Or could the individual perform the task if his/her life depended on it?)

WHAT ARE THE OTHER POTENTIAL CAUSES OF SUBSTANDARD PERFORMANCE?

It’s a capability issue- the individual is unable to perform the desired task (not everyone can run a 4-minute mile).

It’s a reward issue – the individual does not perceive an equitable benefit or reward.

It’s a process issue – the process of system prevents or hampers the performance.

It’s a values issue – personal and work values are in conflict.

It’s a management issue – management does not provide clear priorities or model the desired performance.

It’s a resource issue – the individual doesn’t have the tools or information needed to do the job.

The result ….Not every performance problem is a training issue.