Question

Why do rater errors exist? Which rater error seems most problematic and why? What recommendations would you give to a manager to avoid this rater error?

Answer 1

Rater errors exist because our personal perceptions and biases may influence how we evaluate an individual's performance. This may be due to leniency, Similarity bias or Halo effect.

Halo effect seems to be the most problematic because we often tend to get impressed by the way the other person interacts with us. This may be due to certain reasons such as:

1. Good conversation skills.
2. Use of Jargons.
3. Dominating character, or a distinct voice or attitude.

These factors often overlaps the actual skill of the person for which he/she was supposed to be judged.

A very simple step that managers can do is prepare a rubrics for all the specific parameter for which the candidate is supposed to be judged. Specifically monitor the answers and rate the questions accordingly. The questions should be subjective and similar for all the candidates to be judged. If need be, take help from an expert for a second opinion.