When it comes to performance appraisals, supervisors and incumbents often see the process from different perspectives. Which of the following is usually a factor seen from the perspective of the supervisor?

Correct answer: (A)

The employee’s ability


One reason that performance appraisals are problematic is that supervisors and incumbents likely view the process from different perspectives. For the incumbent, the focus is outward, keying on the environmental factors (the supervisor, lack of support, lack of cooperation among co-workers, problems with machinery, etc.) that impinge on his or her performance. The supervisor’s focus, on the other hand, is on the incumbent and the displayed motivation and ability.