HR Definitions

360- degree Profiling



What is it?
The 360 degree process comprises two phases, 360 degree profiling, and 360 degree feedback.

360 degree feedback is the second phase of the process, which involves coaching the assessee through the interpretation of his or her profiling results into a course of action that will result in behavioural change that will produce sustainable gains in productivity.

360 degree profiling is the first component of the process and involves assessing a person against a set of behaviours, competencies, or core values to discover strengths and development needs.The 360 degree profiling process involves the following steps:
  1. Clear identification of the reason for entering the profiling process
  2. Identification of the items to be measured
  3. Identification of target group/audience (ratees)
  4. Development of the questionnaire
  5. Validation of the questionnaire
  6. Compilation of normative data if required
  7. Marketing the process internally
  8. Development of a privacy policy
  9. Scripting of invitations to complete the questionnaire and introductory instructions
  10. Identification of raters and their relationships to the ratee
  11. Launch of project (using HRworkbench's Questionnaires Application)
  12. Collection of response data (using HRworkbench's Questionnaires Application)
  13. Production of reports (using HRworkbench's Questionnaires Application)
  14. Then we move to the next phase in the project, 360 degree feedback
At HRworkbench®, we deliver the 360 degree profiling process using Questionnaires Online™, our multi-lingual deployment Platform for flexible and efficient delivery of all organisational questionnaires.

How can it be used?
360 degree profiling is predominantly used as a part of a personal development process.

However, the power of the information collected is such that its use can be extended and data can be reorganised to provide input into organisational management needs such as:

  • Training Needs Analysis
  • Identification of local based issues
  • Identification of demographic issues (gender, age groups etc)
  • Deficiencies in management practice
  • Succession Planning
  • Risk Assessment
  • Performance Management or Performance Appraisal

Best Practice
The success of 360 degree profiling processes depends on the correct treatment of many issues. The most important issues are:

  • Transparency of process
  • Protection of Privacy
  • Clear statement of objectives
  • Good internal marketing
  • Trust in the motives for the process

Related Definitions
360 Degree Feedback
360 Degree Process
360 Degree Profiling Tools
360 Survey
Multi-rater Feedback
Peer and Upwards Assessment
Contact Us and we will have one of our expert team contact you for a no obligation discussion on how you can ensure the success of your 360 degree profiling project.