Is it generally a good idea to schedule a performance evaluation meeting with an employee in a public place?

• A. False
• B. True
• C. Not sure
• D. Depends

Answer: (A)

Keeping performance feedback private is essential. These conversations often involve sensitive topics about an employee’s work, behavior, or development, and a private setting helps ensure honesty and focus. In a public place, the employee may feel exposed, which can hinder open discussion, cause embarrassment, or invite interruptions and misinterpretations from others. A confidential space—such as a private office or a quiet meeting room—fosters trust, allows for a constructive, non-confrontational tone, and provides a suitable environment for discussing goals, feedback, and next steps. If privacy isn’t possible in person, use a confidential channel or arrange a time and space that genuinely protects privacy. For these reasons, it is not generally a good idea to schedule a performance evaluation meeting in a public place.