Appraisal Letters | Meaning and Definition

What is the meaning of an appraisal letter?

An appraisal letter or HR letter is a document written by the human resources department of an organization to appraise an employee’s performance. The letter typically contains a description of the employee’s job duties and responsibilities and an evaluation of their work performance. The letter may also include recommendations for promotions or salary increases. It can also be in the form of appreciation mail for the good performance of the employee.

Types of performance appraisal

360-degree appraisal: It is a performance appraisal that includes feedback from people who work around the employee being appraised. The idea behind it is to get a complete view of the individual’s strengths and weaknesses by including input from people with different perspectives, such as supervisors, subordinates, and peers. 

General performance appraisal: It assesses how an employee is performing in general, rather than assessing specific skills or areas of weakness. 

Employee self-assessment: It is a process where employees assess their strengths and weaknesses. This type of assessment can be helpful for employees who want to take action to improve their performance. 

Manager performance appraisal: It is a review of how the manager has done their job, typically focusing on goals setting, coaching, and development, communications, decision making, workload balancing, etc. 

Project Evaluation Appraisal: It reviews how a project or task has been carried out and what went well/not so well. It can be used as a way to improve future projects. 

What is the purpose of the Appraisal letter? 

Difference between appraisal letter and appreciation letter

An appraisal letter formal document is used to assess an employee’s work performance and provide feedback. On the other hand, an appreciation letter is a letter that is sent to express gratitude for a job well done.