Performance Conversation Tools

One of the most critical skills in supervising others is communicating effectively about job performance. At JHU, our goal is for managers and their staff to have at least two formal conversations per year regarding performance strengths and professional development opportunities, as well as informal discussions throughout the year.

We’ve compiled a variety of resources to help managers and supervisors improve their performance conversation skills. Whether you’re looking for in-person instruction, online classes, podcasts, books, or other resources, we have you covered.

• LinkedIn Learning Resources
• Guides:
  • Questions to Ask to Support Performance Conversations
  • Why Do I Avoid Giving Feedback?
  • Manager’s Checklist for Evaluating Employee Development Needs

• Manager Resources:
  • Manager Conversation Series (MCS)
    • MCS Foundations of Feedback
• Other Resources (Articles & Books):
  • How to Give Feedback: Situation, Behavior, Impact
  • 10 Ways to Have a Better Conversation
  • How to Use Others’ Feedback to Learn and Grow
  • Thanks for the Feedback
  • “How Do You Respond to Feedback?”
  • “How to Get the Feedback You Need”
  • “How to Ask for Feedback That Will Actually Help You”
  • “To Get More Feedback, Act More Coachable”
  • Eight Questions Every Manager Should Ask
  • What Great Managers Do to Engage Employees
  • Want to Build Engagement? Be Inclusive

• TED Talks:
  • Dan Ariely: What Makes Us Feel Good About Our Work?
  • Dan Pink: The Puzzle of Motivation
  • Simon Sinek: How Great Leaders Inspire Action
  • Simon Sinek: Why Good Leaders Make You Feel Safe