Dr. Tom Siebenaler, a psychologist with a PhD and owner of the management consultancy Seven Trees HR Consulting, provided students on the Business Psychology and Sustainability Management degree programme with practical insights into modern performance management.
Performance Management as a Continuous Process
Dr. Siebenaler began by explaining the fundamentals of performance management. He made it clear that this is not a one-off performance appraisal, but rather a continuous process comprising goal-setting, regular feedback and joint reflection on goal achievement. The aim is to provide targeted support to employees, help them develop their performance and, at the same time, communicate the company’s objectives transparently.
More than just staff appraisals
Using concrete examples from business practice, Dr .Siebenaler demonstrated the factors that constitute effective performance management. In addition to a structured process, the role of the manager, an open feedback culture and regular development discussions play a decisive role. He emphasised that performance management should not be seen as a control mechanism, but as a basis for dialogue between managers and staff.
Business Psychology in Human Resources
Dr. Siebenaler also spoke about his own career path – from studying psychology, through various roles in HR consultancy and human resources management, to setting up his own consultancy firm. Drawing on his experiences, he highlighted how psychological insights help to shape modern HR processes and support organisations through change processes.
The Business School would like to extend its sincere thanks to Dr. Tom Siebenaler for the fascinating insight into the practical aspects of performance management and for the open discussion with the students.
