What appraisal method involves using a logbook with narratives of positive and negative examples of work-related behaviors?

The critical incident method is a performance appraisal technique that focuses on specific incidents of employee behavior that significantly contribute to job performance, whether positively or negatively. This approach involves keeping a logbook or journal where managers or supervisors document noteworthy examples of an employee's conduct in the workplace.

These documented incidents provide concrete evidence of how an employee performs in various situations. By focusing on real-life examples, this method offers rich, qualitative data that can illustrate an employee's strengths and areas for improvement. It also helps to mitigate biases that might occur in more subjective appraisal methods, as feedback is based on observed incidents rather than general impressions.

This method is particularly useful because it can promote discussions around performance and development during appraisal meetings, creating actionable feedback for employees. By concentrating on specific behaviors, it encourages a focus on continuous improvement and performance enhancement.