www. refrigerationandaircon. co. za RACA Journal I October 2025 41
Contributor
• Displaying a professional image can include everything from your attire and demeanor to your online presence and even your chosen mode of transport. The image you project can be surprisingly influential.
The challenge with these unstated aspects is that they are, by their very nature, incredibly difficult to measure objectively. How do you quantify loyalty or cultural alignment? Yet, despite their immeasurability, should we simply ignore them? Or should one‘ break the rules of quantification’ and at least address these aspects heuristically within a performance discussion, rather than pretending they don ' t exist? Perhaps the conversation should shift from strict measurement to qualitative assessment, acknowledging these factors as important, even if not numerically rated. This could involve open discussions about cultural fit, perceived contributions to team dynamics, and alignment with company values.
Furthermore, a critical warning sign for any employee is a manager who exhibits little structure or clarity in performance matters. This lack of defined expectations and measurable outcomes is not merely a sign of disorganisation; it can be a deliberate strategic manoeuvre. By keeping performance criteria vague and subjective, a manager effectively increases their personal power. They are less accountable to objective standards and more reliant on their own subjective judgement, thereby enhancing their control over subordinates ' career trajectories. Such a lack of structure can become a breeding ground for favouritism, bias and a profound sense of unfairness among employees.
Therefore, while the pursuit of a complete, concise and measurable performance contract is an admirable ideal, the realities of the professional world introduce complexities that defy easy quantification. Promotion or a significant salary increase is rarely guaranteed, constrained by factors beyond individual performance. However, that does not diminish the profound importance of maintaining an impeccable performance record. It puts you in a position of strength, resilience and advantage in an ever-shifting professional landscape. Moreover, we must become more astute observers of the unwritten rules and unspoken expectations that often govern career advancement. RACA
“ The stated, explicit requirements often form just the tip of the iceberg.”
www. refrigerationandaircon. co. za RACA Journal I October 2025 41