For too many businesses, employee performance leaves a lot to be desired. Either, it’s not done at all or it’s done poorly and leaves both parties unsatisfied. Used correctly, employee performance management is a powerful tool for engaging employees by linking their performance to organizational objectives so that ultimately everyone is focused on the success of the business. In addition, a well executed employee performance management process will identify an organization's up and coming talent, clarify training needs, shape succession plans and help make objective compensation and internal staffing decisions. When attempting to maximize productivity, improve performance and deliver business value, the place to start is getting your employees to set clear SMART objectives. Objectives serve as a way to keep employees on course and working toward an overarching company goal. They provide focus, direction, set expectations and also provide motivation for your workforce. Employees can only achieve and exceed expectations when they know exactly what is expected of them. What’s more, when employees are confident of what is expected of them, they won’t waste business time or energy worrying - allowing them to make most of their time and skills.