In assessing a subordinate's performance, what should a supervisor emphasize to maintain motivation?

• A. Acknowledge good work and provide feedback.
• B. Compare unfavorably to others.
• C. Criticize in public.
• D. Ignore results.

Answer: (A)

Motivation in performance assessment comes from recognizing good work and providing feedback. When supervisors acknowledge specific strengths and results and pair that with clear, constructive guidance, employees feel valued and understand exactly what to continue doing and how to improve. Timely, specific praise reinforces desirable behavior, boosts confidence, and builds trust, which together sustain effort and engagement over time. By linking recognition to observable actions and outcomes, the subordinate sees a path for growth and feels encouraged to invest in their work.

Other approaches tend to undermine motivation. Comparing someone unfavorably to others can foster defensiveness and resentment rather than improvement. Criticizing in public damages self-esteem and trust, making it harder for the employee to accept feedback or strive for better performance. Ignoring results leaves the employee uncertain about expectations and disengaged from the appraisal process, reducing motivation altogether.