Course Outline
Introduction to Performance Management
• Definition of performance management
• Importance within organisational success
• Role of managers and supervisors
• Aligning individual performance with organisational goals
Setting Clear Expectations and Objectives
• Importance of clear role expectations
• Setting SMART objectives
• Linking individual goals to business outcomes
• Establishing performance standards
Monitoring and Managing Performance
• Continuous performance tracking
• Identifying performance gaps
• Using data and observation effectively
• Maintaining consistency across teams
Effective Feedback and Communication
• Delivering constructive feedback
• Structuring performance conversations
• Active listening and communication techniques
• Managing difficult conversations
Performance Reviews and Appraisals
• Structuring performance review meetings
• Preparing for appraisals
• Objective vs subjective evaluation
• Documenting performance outcomes
Managing Underperformance
• Identifying causes of poor performance
• Supporting employee improvement
• Setting improvement plans (PIPs)
• Escalation procedures where required
Employee Development and Motivation
• Coaching and mentoring approaches
• Supporting employee growth
• Recognising performance and achievements
• Building engagement and accountability
Performance Management as an Ongoing Process
• Moving beyond annual reviews
• Embedding continuous feedback culture
• Supporting organisational consistency
• Maintaining documentation and compliance
Who the Course Is For
This course is suitable for individuals responsible for managing people and performance within organisations, including:
• Human Resources Managers & Directors
• HR Business Partners
• Line Managers and Supervisors
• Team Leaders
• Operations Managers
• Senior Management teams
• Business Owners and Department Heads
• Individuals transitioning into management roles
No prior formal performance management training is required.
Why This Training Is Important
Organisational Performance
Clear performance structures improve productivity and accountability across teams
Legal Responsibility
Employers must manage performance fairly and consistently in line with employment law principles
Consistency
Structured performance processes reduce bias and improve decision-making
Employee Engagement
Effective performance management supports motivation, development, and retention
Course Objectives
Participants will:
• Understand the principles of effective performance management
• Set clear and measurable employee objectives
• Deliver structured and constructive feedback
• Conduct effective performance reviews
• Manage underperformance appropriately
• Support employee development and engagement
• Apply consistent and fair performance management practices
Course Format & Delivery
Instructor-led training
• Interactive discussions and scenario-based learning
• Practical role-play exercises
• Real workplace performance case studies
Delivered:
• Onsite at client premises, or
• Online Webinar
The course focuses on practical management application and real workplace scenarios rather than theory-only instruction.
Irish Legislation Supported
This training supports employer obligations under:
• Employment Equality Acts 1998–2015
• Unfair Dismissals Acts 1977–2015
• Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005
Irish legislation requires employers to:
• Manage employees fairly and consistently
• Apply objective performance management processes
• Avoid discrimination in performance evaluation
• Maintain proper documentation of performance decisions
• Ensure safe and supportive working environments
Why Choose Samson Training
Samson Training delivers professional workplace training focused on practical management capability and organisational effectiveness.
Our approach emphasises:
• Clear and structured performance management frameworks
• Practical communication and feedback skills
• Real workplace management scenarios
• Consistent and professional delivery
• Observation-led management development
We position performance management as a core leadership responsibility — not simply an HR process.
FAQ's
What is performance management training?
Performance management training teaches managers how to set expectations, monitor performance, deliver feedback, and manage employee development effectively.
Who should attend this course?
Managers, supervisors, HR professionals, and anyone responsible for managing employee performance should attend.
Does the course include practical exercises?
Yes. The course includes role-play scenarios and real workplace case studies.
Is this course suitable for new managers?
Yes. It is highly suitable for individuals transitioning into management roles.
How long is the course?
The course is delivered as a 1-day programme.
Can this training be delivered onsite?
Yes. The course can be tailored and delivered onsite based on organisational requirements.
