Calibration (Calibration Session)

Definition

A meeting where managers discuss and align on employee performance ratings to ensure consistency and eliminate bias, often degenerating into political negotiation.

Example Usage

During the annual calibration session, three managers argued for 10 minutes about whether an employee deserved a 3.5 or 4.0 rating.

Origin

Quality control terminology adapted to HR performance management in the 1990s.

Fun Fact

Calibration meetings are supposed to eliminate bias but often amplify it, as the loudest manager's opinions tend to prevail.

Source: Performance management terminology

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