Based on a survey of 500 employees, recruitment consultant Office Angels says that too many companies are under-estimating the importance of the staff appraisal process as a tool for motivating people.

Most employees questioned said that they felt more valued when they were given feedback on how their careers were progressing. But over a third reported that they waited for up to a year to receive any feedback or for help with improving performance.

A quarter said they would start looking for a new job within weeks if they thought the appraisal had gone badly.

"Employers should recognise that appraisals are a golden opportunity to invest time in their staff, pledging training and development," argues Paul Jacobs, director of corporate communications at Office Angels.

The message to make more of the process is clearly getting through in some cases. The survey also found that one in four appraisals are held outside the office in order to encourage the participants to be more relaxed.

Elliott Chase