Who is primarily responsible for appraising an employee's performance in most organizations?

The employee's direct supervisor is primarily responsible for appraising an employee's performance in most organizations due to their close working relationship and direct observation of the employee's day-to-day activities. This supervisor has the best understanding of the employee's job responsibilities, work quality, and contribution to team dynamics, making them uniquely equipped to evaluate performance accurately.

The direct supervisor typically engages in regular interactions with the employee, allowing for ongoing feedback and support, which enhances the appraisal process. They are also likely to have established performance goals and expectations in collaboration with the employee, thereby ensuring alignment in the subsequent evaluation.

In contrast, while HR Managers, Department Heads, and Team Leads may play important roles in the overall performance management process, they tend to focus on broader organizational policies, strategies, and team dynamics rather than the granular details of an individual's performance. Therefore, the assessment from a direct supervisor is often more relevant and impactful in measuring an employee's achievements and areas for improvement.