Inside the average Manager's head during appraisal

"Okay… He will be expecting a 4 this year. He did great work. But if I give him that, he'll ask for a promotion And if I promote him, I lose budget Also I have to then deal with his questions on team, title, % raise, roadmap And if I don't promote someone else, they'll get pissed. 5 is highest. Can't give 5. 1 means performance warning. Can't lose this guy. Can't give 1. If I give him a 3.75, he'll know it's political If I give him a 3.5, he'll stay confused - and motivated So let's make it a 3.25 - Looks real, generous and that some thought went into it Sounds encouraging Doesn't cost me anything Keeps him hopeful but not entitled I will also add some vague feedback on - You can do so much more, I see your potential. etc. I will also celebrate the system. Wrap it up in "transparency", "fairness" and "meritocracy" I am such a ...Genius"

Meanwhile .. One Employee to Another - "Tera bhi kat gaya kya?"