What is a conversation cycle?
The conversation cycle, also called the HR cycle, hrm cycle, assessment cycle or conversation cycle, includes all the moments when managers talk to employees about their development. We prefer to call this the conversation cycle, since the term HR cycle or hr conversation suggests that the HR department is always involved in this, which absolutely does not have to be the case. In fact, most conversations within the cycle are held between employee and manager. However, it is up to the HR department to monitor the process of the (hr or hrm) interview cycle. Thus, however, it is not the case that you have a performance review or the interview cycle takes place as a conversation with HR.
How can you set up and establish such an assessment cycle?
The interview cycle can be structured in a variety of ways. Many organizations still work with a traditional annual cycle. In this traditional interview cycle you will find three fixed moments:
At the beginning of the year you set goals together during the goal discussion or planning meeting. Halfway through the year you discuss these goals in a progress or performance review. At the end of the year you evaluate the goals in a review meeting, which is also another name for a performance review.
More and more organizations are moving away from this traditional interview cycle and this traditional way of assessing. They are introducing the new assessment and in doing so are switching to a new hr cycle, which can also simplify the process of the hr cycle. This is also called the "new style interview cycle. This means that employees are much more in charge of their own development and that the three fixed interview moments per year are a thing of the past. The online or digital interview cycle is much more continuous. Employees and managers are in constant dialogue with each other about growth and development.
How can a conversation cycle tool support this process?
It is important to support the new-style interview cycle with a good tool. Especially for the younger generation, this is an absolute must. Because they have grown up with technology, they know better than anyone how to deal with it. Securing it in a tool makes the process much more accessible. In addition, a tool makes it clear where you stand at any time and you can easily divide the entire process into small pieces. Treams' goal module can help you with that. In the Treams tools you can also find examples of conversation cycle examples or tips for employees. More information can be obtained in the free masterclass of Treams!