Abstract:
The study identified that several challenges may hinder the effectiveness of performance appraisal systems and thus aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of the performance appraisal system operating within the Ghana Post Company Limited. This was pursued through examining the nature of the performance appraisal system of the company, assessing the effectiveness of the performance appraisal system, and discussing how appraisal results influence staff performance. A descriptive design was adopted to study 48 appraisees and eight appraisers. Questionnaires were used to collect data from appraisees and interview guides were used to collect data from appraisers. Statistical tools used to analyse the data collected included descriptive tools such as means, medians, frequencies, percentages and Mann-Whitney U test. The study found that the appraisal system was formal and guided by documented and lucid policies and also adequately involved senior and junior staff. In addition, the system effectively provided feedback for most senior and junior staff and the system helped improve employee skills, improve understanding of job expectations, clarify roles of teams and resolve misunderstanding on the job duties. The study recommended management to continue involving junior and senior staff and provide feedback. Management is also advised to effectively resolve challenges including time constraints, clarifying the assessment criteria to employees, and provide adequate cooperation to staff during appraisal.
