Awarding a rise
Granting a pay rise that you know will be well accepted is a positive activity. However, it’s vital to ensure your employee continues to work hard!
If someone asks for a decent rise, and receives it immediately, there’s a real danger they may become complacent and lack the drive to continue performing well. While in the review itself, if you know you are ultimately going to give your employee what they want, then before you inform them, stress the importance of earning their pay.
Talk about the need to maintain high performance standards. Maybe set higher future targets. Try to provide fresh projects or responsibilities to keep them motivated. You could bring forward a performance appraisal to show your continued interest after the pay review. Then tell them.