Consistently getting 'exceptional' is actually a very easy problem to solve… Just promote that person to a higher grade, with increased expectations (w.r.t. sp

Consistently getting 'exceptional' is actually a very easy problem to solve… Just promote that person to a higher grade, with increased expectations (w.r.t. sphere of influence), but zero change to compensation or assigned tasks! They will no longer receive exceptional ratings nor occupy a larger slice of the bonus pool. And the manager gets to “check the box” for fostering employe development. Later, when that employee leaves for greener pastures, you get a free pass for the next round of layoffs!