Peer pressure works, at Sheng Siong

MANY corporations use performance evaluations to assess and reward their staff with year-end bonuses. Supermarket group Sheng Siong has done away with the system altogether. All employees in the same job role and of the same rank get the same bonus regardless of how well or badly they have performed that year, or how long they have been at their job.

Weak performers face immense social pressure to shape up or quit, says Sheng Siong CEO Lim Hock Chee of his 2,300 employees. "If you don't do well, everybody won't like you," he says. Staff are encouraged to work together so the company can perform better, he explains.

"Money is earned through your own efforts. This isn't what the boss earns," says the Mandarin-speaking Mr Lim, who waxes philosophical on the subject of people management. "Other than earning your salary, you must be able to grow, and learn," he says.