Aligning Ambitions: Mid-Cycle Check-In for a Stronger Performance

Supervisor assisting employee who is looking at a laptop

In July of 2023, Human Resources launched the Performance Management Program as part of the HR Excellence Initiative. This program promotes continuous learning, professional and personal development and ensures accountability and enhanced communication between supervisors and staff. During the goal-setting phase of this program, over 1,400 staff and faculty members participated in S.M.A.R.T. goals training. The training enabled staff and managers to work together to set goals aligned with the university’s vision, mission, and values.

On December 5, the mid-cycle check-in process begins. This process allows for supervisors and employees to reflect on and discuss goal progress. Key topics to highlight during the check-in include:

  • Assessing accomplishments
  • Addressing challenges
  • Adjusting goals, if needed, to reflect changes in responsibilities or priorities
  • Assessing performance and development

Leveraging this flexible approach to performance management enables staff and supervisors to work together and ensure goals are achieved.

To support the mid-year check-in, HR offers tools and resources for staff and supervisors, including in-person and virtual training sessions. Training includes guidance on:

  • Assessing progress and performance
  • Offering and receiving constructive feedback
  • Adjusting goals and objectives
  • Documenting the details on the mid-cycle check-in form
  • Recognizing achievements
  • Addressing professional development needs

In April 2024, supervisors and employees will complete their end-of-year performance evaluation, and the goal-setting cycle will begin again. Training options for the mid-year check-in for supervisors and employees are available in iO Learning. The HR Talent Development Team can assist anyone with questions about performance management at performancemanagement@rice.edu.