problem solving skills annual review

Problem Solving: 40 Useful Performance Feedback Phrases

Problem Solving: Use these sample phrases to craft meaningful performance evaluations, drive change and motivate your workforce.

Problem Solving is the skill of defining a problem to determine its cause, identify it, prioritize and select alternative solutions to implement in solving the problems and reviving relationships.

Problem Solving: Exceeds Expectations Phrases

• Actively listens when others are talking and seek clarification on issues not well understood.
• Seeks to brainstorm on problems to try to find the right solutions.
• Evaluates all possible solutions and chooses the one that will deliver the best results.
• Knows how well to collaborate with others to find solutions to problems.
• Knows how to resolve any outstanding client issues and problems amicably.
• Communicates views and thoughts in a very distinct and understandable manner.
• Is decisive when it comes to making decisions and sticks by the decisions made.
• Gathers all the necessary facts and information first before making any decision.
• Monitors all outcomes of all actions undertaken to take full responsibility for any problem.
• Breaks a problem down before starting to analyze it in a more detailed manner.

Problem Solving: Meets Expectations Phrases

• Is always open-minded and readily accepts what others have to contribute.
• Has an inquisitive nature and tries to analyze all that is happening around.
• Always asks the right questions and raises any relevant issue when necessary.
• Keeps things calm even when required to make quick decisions under high pressure.
• Communicates or articulates issues in an obvious and concise way that people can easily understand.
• Shows strong level-headedness when assessing situations and coming up with solutions.
• Tries to be accommodative of other people's views and accepts them easily.
• Always portrays enough knowledge of the problem and its feasible solutions.
• Shows the willingness to change tact whenever the conditions change.
• Creates opportunities to evaluate and implement the decisions that are arrived at properly.

Problem Solving: Needs Improvement Phrases

• Not willing to be accommodative of other people's ideas and opinions.
• Does not know how to present a problem in ways that people can understand.
• Finds it difficult to articulate issues in a clear and understandable manner.
• Not decisive and assertive when it comes to coming up with solutions.
• Does not take the time to listen keenly to what others have to say or contribute.
• Always in a hurry to make decisions and does not think things through.
• Does not always monitor the decisions made to ensure that they have a positive impact.
• When faced with a high-pressure problem, does not maintain a cool head to be able to solve it properly.
• Not willing to collaborate with other people to come up with solutions to problems.
• Does not manage client-related issues in a professional manner and customers are left unsatisfied.

Problem Solving: Self Evaluation Questions

• How well do you solve issues and are you confident in your abilities?
• Give an instance you solved a problem, and it was successful.
• Give a situation that you solved a problem, and it was unsuccessful.
• How well do you accommodate other people ideas and opinions when trying to solve a problem?
• How do you manage high-pressure situations that require fast and urgent attention?
• Do you involve other people when trying to solve any particular problem?
• How well do you brainstorm before setting out to solve a problem?
• Do you research well enough to get proper facts and information?
• Are you in most cases conversant with what the problem is before you solve it?
• How well are you keen on everything that is happening around you?

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55 Effective Performance Review Phrases to Use — and Which Ones to Avoid

Finding the right words can be challenging — especially when it comes to performance reviews . To help employees hit their performance goals and feel motivated to grow, managers need to strike the delicate balance between acknowledging their employees’ successes, and giving constructive feedback to highlight key areas of improvement.

In this guide, we’ve shared some best practice examples of performance review phrases, broken down by some of the common themes seen in employee performance reviews. 

Most of the phrases we’ve highlighted are used to indicate that an employee is meeting or exceeding expectations. But at the end of each section, we’ve also included a few examples of how to indicate when an employee’s quality of work isn’t quite making the grade, and they need to improve their performance .

These performance review examples are meant to inspire managers who are struggling to find the right words and phrases to describe behavior. Think of them as more like a template — they’re generic phrases that you can build on to reflect individual employee traits and overall performance by adding in your own specific examples.

Communication

People’s communication and interpersonal skills can vary widely, so it’s important to specifically highlight how an employee’s ability to communicate supports their success in their role — whether by deepening relationships with team members, managing difficult customers, or providing clear direction and constructive feedback to direct reports.

When evaluating employees on communication skills , make sure you consider their ability to promote clarity, specificity, and collaboration.

Positive Feedback Examples for Communication

• Often asks for immediate feedback to clarify and ensure understanding.
• Regularly asks well-prepared or thoughtfully composed questions.
• Quick to ask follow-up questions that pinpoint misunderstanding or a lack of foresight.
• Comfortable saying, “I’m not sure. Can I get back to you?“
• Asks others for their opinions and makes coworkers feel comfortable contributing.
• Collaborates cross-functionally and builds strong working relationships with other internal departments.
• Promotes cooperation, communication, and collaboration by sharing their own knowledge and inviting others to do the same.
• Explicitly communicates expectations, objectives, and key results to team members and direct reports.

Constructive Feedback Examples for Communication

• Can be verbose, which makes it difficult for them to communicate a clear message
• Exhibits difficulty breaking down complex issues into manageable parts
• Is unwilling to commit their staff’s resources to other departments when asked

Teamwork and Collaboration

Teamwork and collaboration skills are essential for a high-performing, engaged workforce. Good team relationships not only increase job satisfaction and psychological safety for the individual, but they also make the whole team perform better too, supporting greater knowledge sharing and innovation .

“When an employee makes their coworkers’ work better, they’re bringing value to your company as a whole,” said ‍ Daivat Dholakia , Director of Operations at Force by Mojio , a GPS fleet-tracking app.

Positive Feedback Examples for Teamwork and Collaboration

• Elevates their team’s performance and productivity by [include one to two specific examples].
• Promotes collaboration on teams and encourages participation from individual members.
• Builds effective teams by helping team members play to their strengths.
• Fosters a sense of unity on teams, which encourages individual buy-in and helps the group reach its common goal.
• Insists on mutually respectful dialogue when resolving interpersonal problems or challenges .
• Provides positive affirmation and encouragement to balance constructive criticism.

Constructive Feedback Examples for Teamwork and Collaboration

• Fails to provide emotional encouragement or hands-on support to struggling members of the team.
• Discourages coworkers from volunteering ideas by interrupting others in team meetings.
• Responds aggressively when their authority is challenged.

Goal Achievement

Evaluating how well employees have set and met their goals is a core part of the performance review process. As much as possible, managers need to tie what employees did to its outcome on the business. Linking the two clarifies to employees how their actions are helping advance the organization’s goals and agenda .

“I like to use phrases that home in on key positive traits of the employee that are benefitting our business, then back them up with specific examples,” said Ravi Parikh , CEO of RoverPass , a SaaS company that helps individuals book campsites. “If I can tie it to a clear outcome, I do.” Parikh offered this phrasing as an example: “Your implementation of chatbots on our websites contributed to a 21% rise in online sales this past year.”

Positive Feedback Examples for Goal Achievement

• Improved communication by [include one to three specific examples].
• Improved our service and/or production of X item or X service by Y%.
• Led X project leading to higher-than-expected profits in Y quarter.

Constructive Feedback Examples for Goal Achievement

• Has consistently struggled to achieve OKRs over the last X quarters.
• Often reports a lack of necessary resources to perform their job description adequately.
• Has trouble setting measurable goals that align with company strategic objectives.

Creativity, Problem-Solving, and Critical Thinking

Evaluating your employees’ creativity and problem-solving skills during the performance appraisal process means considering how they generate ideas, approach new challenges, and use their problem-solving ability to complete tasks. 

“[It’s important to] acknowledge an individual who develops creative strategies and seeks creative solutions to challenging obstacles,” said Lori Rassas , SPHR-certified employment attorney and author of It’s About You, Too: How to Manage Employee Resistance to Your Diversity Initiatives and Improve Workplace Culture and Profitability . “You want to be sure to acknowledge those who carefully evaluated the pros and cons of challenging decisions and excelled in seeking solutions.”

Positive Feedback Examples for Creativity, Problem-Solving, and Critical Thinking

• Identifies new approaches to complex problems or obstacles.
• Translates creative ideas into practical application to solve everyday issues.
• Analyzes possible barriers and bottlenecks to reduce delays.
• Resolved long-standing X problem with the creative workaround of Y.
• Understands when to take creative risks and when to stick with more conventional solutions.
• Drives creativity across the team by seeking out different perspectives and embracing experimentation.

Constructive Feedback Examples for Creativity, Problem-Solving, and Critical Thinking

• Struggles to adjust their work in the face of a client’s changing needs.
• Unwilling to explore the creative ideas of peers.
• Struggles to see the patterns in recurring issues.

Flexibility and Adaptability

During times of change — like a merger or acquisition , layoff, or economic instability — adaptability is vital for keeping your employees motivated, engaged, and performing at their best. It’s what helps your people adjust quickly to a new work environment, maintain their work ethic during trying times, or proactively learn new skills to help them overcome new challenges. 

Positive Feedback Examples for Flexibility and Adaptability

• Shows a positive attitude when the team has to pivot quickly.
• Maintains composure when faced with stressful or unexpected situations.
• Quickly adapts to a new action plan when plans change or unexpected issues arise.
• Proactively focuses on professional development to accomplish new tasks or team goals.

Constructive Feedback Examples for Flexibility and Adaptability

• Unwilling or unable to listen to others’ points of view.
• Becomes frustrated and unfocused when faced with unexpected challenges.
• Resists implementing new company policies or programs in their day-to-day work.

Time Management and Dependability

Time management skills and dependability are a key component of a well-oiled, productive team. When evaluating this skill in performance reviews, it’s important to consider how well your employees manage their time in their individual tasks, as well as how this impacts the wider team’s goal accomplishment and engagement. 

Positive Feedback Examples for Time Management and Dependability

• Meets deadlines and delivers high-quality work on time.
• Demonstrated excellent task prioritization and project management skills when working on X project with Y team.
• Communicates in a timely manner when extra time is needed to complete a project.

Constructive Feedback Examples for Time Management and Dependability

• Appears to find time management difficult when working on specific tasks, including X and Y.
• Struggles with onsite punctuality when required.
• Struggles to manage time effectively when required to deliver under pressure.

Leadership and Management

Leadership and management isn’t just about evaluating how well your leaders lead. Instead, it’s just as much a chance to see how readily your individual contributors will support and mentor their colleagues, show initiative when making decisions, and take the wheel on team projects or company-wide initiatives. 

Positive Feedback Examples for Leadership and Management

• Demonstrates willingness to lead the onboarding process for new employees to the team.
• Founded and led a company-wide ERG.
• Mentors junior employees to help their professional development in X skill.
• Takes charge when required in group projects.

Constructive Feedback Examples for Leadership and Management

• Struggles to make effective decisions when leading a team project.
• Shows an unwillingness to participate in company mentorship program for junior employees.
• Can appear unsupportive or unhelpful when colleagues need help or advice.

3 Things to Avoid When Writing Performance Reviews

Getting the words right in a performance review means your employees have clear, specific information on what they’ve done well, what they need to improve, and critically, how they can get there. But beyond saying the right things, there are a few key rules of thumb when it comes to what to avoid saying in a performance review.

1. Don’t be vague.

You’d be surprised how often ambiguous wording slips into our written and verbal communication. This is even more true in business settings — we’re at greater risk of speaking or writing in vague terms because using jargon or clichés is so common.

Dholakia said this is why he avoids the term ‘team player,’ for instance: “It’s a meaningless term that doesn’t say anything concrete or specific about how the employee collaborates with others.”

For greater clarity and specificity during performance reviews, avoid business jargon, acronyms, or team-specific cultural references that might confuse a team member. Instead, opt for simple sentences and specific details that clearly point to next steps.

2. Avoid absolutes.

Use words like ‘always’ and ‘never’ sparingly, if at all. It’s rarely accurate that an employee always or never does something. If an employee is often late to work, avoid saying,“You’re always late” or, “You’re never punctual.” Rebecca Southern Mills , HR consultant and founder of Simplecated , said managers should provide more accurate and specific feedback, like, “You’ve been late to work at least twice a week for the last six months.”

3. Skip surprises.

Because managers and their direct reports should have open communication and exchange regular feedback , “nothing in a performance review should ever come as a surprise to a team member,” said Arron Grow, PhD , CEO at management consulting firm AP Grow and author of How to Not Suck As a Manager .

Great managers ensure employees know how they are performing, and whether they are meeting expectations or not. “If something needs to be said to help a team member improve, have that conversation (or two) long before the performance review,” Grow advised. “Surprises are great for holidays and birthdays, but not for performance reviews.”

Performance Reviews Are Just One Piece of Performance Management

Words matter — and finding the words and phrases to accurately describe employee performance can be tough. But remember, even if you provide the most incisive, accurate, and motivational performance review, doing so in a vacuum absent of other feedback won’t get you far. 

To be effective, performance reviews must exist within the ecosystem of greater performance management , which includes mid-year and annual reviews , but also regular check-ins, like one-on-ones ; affirmations, like sharing everyday praise ; and a consistent culture of feedback .

‍Balancing all of these essential feedback processes requires you to match the specificity and clarity of your feedback with compassion, sensitivity, and empathy so that your employees feel recognized for their successes , understand their opportunities for growth and development , and understand what to do next to perform at their best.yal

Related content

How Your Brain Responds to Performance Reviews

How to Combat Bias With Calibrated Performance Review Questions

Anniversary Reviews vs. Focal Reviews: How to Time Employee Evaluations

How The Performance Review Impacts Your Bottom Line (and How to Make Them Better)

300 Performance Review Phrases in 20 Areas of Work

Performance review season is a stressful time of year. As a leader, it can be a struggle for you to properly describe a behavior exhibited by an employee, so we tried to make it easier by listing over 100 performance review phrases below. They are grouped by category to make it easy to find inspiration and not get in trouble with HR.

Two pieces of advice before you get started:

At Friday, we make it easy to have regular conversations, so you don’t have to bottle up your feedback for a review and performance appraisal that happens once a year.  See our playbooks  for success. You should not delay important conversations. We strongly recommend having regular  1-1s  and establishing a feedback loop. Don't kick the can down the road.

Second, please make sure when completing a performance review that you  outline behaviors, not personality traits . Behaviors can be changed. Also make sure you document the behavior. Ideally, you bring it up in-the-moment vs. a performance review.

With the disclaimer out of the way, here's a list of canned performance review phrases to give you some inspiration. For the love of everything, please don't copy these phrases verbatim.

You owe it to your employee to put some time into this process and consider their overall performance. If you want to learn how to effective run a performance review, you should read  High Output Management .

Before we dive in take a look at these performance review templates !

Active Listening

1. Is an active and focused listener

2. Makes sure the team feels heard

3. Creates healthy dialogue to help the best solution come forward

4. Listens with an open mind

5. Demonstrates a sincere appreciation for opposing viewpoints

6. Actively seeks feedback, even when it’s not in agreement

7. Asks insightful questions to understand the root cause

8. Empathizes with others who have opposing viewpoints

9. Follows instructions with care and attention

Needs Improvement

10. Asks questions that show he/she is not actively listening to the conversation at hand

11. Is distracted easily and doesn’t fully absorb another person’s point of view

12. Interrupts peers

13. Constantly interjects into conversations

14. Dismisses other people’s ideas who she/he doesn’t agree with

15. Stops listening when presented with an opposing viewpoint

Administration

16. Is effective when handling large amounts of data 

17. Produces high-quality work that is well documented and detailed
 

18. Is capable of working independently from day one

19. Is a strong team player
 

20. Is well organized, and can effectively implement projects from start to finish
 

21. Can make independent decisions when necessary
 

22. Demonstrates good time management skills
 

23. Can adapt his/her schedule to meet the needs of the business
 

24. Has excellent follow-through skills, and is always on time with deliverables 

25. Shows ability to be proactive in identifying tasks that need to be completed 

Areas for Improvement 

26. Does not show an aptitude for number crunching and data entry activities 

27. Has difficulty following through with tasks that require a high amount of organization and time management 

28. Seemed to have trouble getting organized this week
 

29. Demonstrates disinterest in the administrative aspects of the job 

30. Has trouble with filing, record keeping, and other administrative tasks


31. Is less than eager to complete documentation-related work
 

32. Is often late, which negatively impacts project completion timelines

Attendance & Being On-Time

33. Is punctual and consistently on-time to meetings

34. Arrives at meetings on time and is always prepared

35. Attained perfect attendance over $time_period

36. Schedules time-off according to company policy

37. Completes deadlines as promised

Areas for improvement

38. Does not meet attendance standards for punctuality

39. Has exceeded the maximum number of vacation days allotted

40. Is frequently late to work

41. Does not return communications in a timely manner

42. Is a quick study 

43. Learns from mistakes 

44. Is willing to hear constructive criticism 

45. Accepts coaching well, and does not become defensive when given negative feedback 

46. Takes responsibility for own mistakes and failures 

47. Demonstrates a willingness to improve performance in the face of negative feedback 7. Asks questions about the most effective way to approach new activities 

48. Asks for clarification when he or she is unsure how to correctly complete a task or activity 

49. Demonstrates self-awareness and willingness to improve in areas where he or she is lacking 

50. Is sensitive to the fact that there is always room for improvement, both personally and professionally 

Areas of Improvement

51. Seeks individual coaching only when an area of weakness has been identified by someone else 

52. Demonstrates lack of awareness regarding his or her own deficiencies as a team member or employee 

Communication

53. Regularly gives constructive feedback

54. Is willing to entertain others ideas

55. Asks great questions

56. Explains tough issues in a way that is clear to the rest of the team and direct reports

57. Is not afraid to say “I don’t know” when presented with a tough question.

58. Is effective at summarizing and communicating key business decisions.

59. Stands out among his/her peers for outstanding communication skills

60. Is effective at persuading and convincing peers, especially when the stakes are high

61. Is an effective listener, always willing to listen and understand peers objections

62. Makes new employees feel welcome

63. Acts as a calming force when the team is under pressure

64. Blames others for problems

65. Complains of lack of resources to adequately complete job functions

66. Fails to alert proper personnel regarding bad news

67. Regularly engages in off-putting conversations, can be territorial at times

68. Humiliates staff members on a regular basis

69. Has trouble communicating effectively in groups

70. Has other coworkers deliver bad news instead of doing it himself/herself

71. Makes others feel intimidated when working on company projects

Cooperation

72. Is easy to work with, and encourages others to work together as a team 

73. Is supportive of coworkers, even in the face of conflict or adversity 

74. Supports group decisions even when it is not his/her preferred course of action 

75. Fosters a cooperative atmosphere 

76. Is a team player who does not put personal goals ahead of the greater good of the group 

77. Is receptive to ideas from peers and willing to adapt his/her own behaviors in response

78. Frequently expresses frustration with coworkers when they are too slow, or do not complete their tasks in time for the next project phase to begin on time 

79. Frequently comes late to meetings and disrupts workflow for other workers 

80. Takes credit for the work of others, especially when it is not deserved 

81. Does not share information with colleagues if they do not ask for it directly 

82. Thinks outside the box to find the best solution to a particular problem

83. Is creative and finds ways to correlate ideas with action

84. Artfully changes when presented with new information and ideas

85. Is always willing to directly challenge the status quo in pursuit of a more effective solution

86. Contributes fresh ideas regularly

87. Encourages coworkers to be inventive

88. Contributes innovative ideas in group projects

89. Contributes suggestions regularly on how to improve company processes

90. Demonstrates disinterest in contributing creative or innovative ideas

91. Is rigid and unwilling to adjust when presented with new information

92. Fails to properly attribute coworkers who contribute innovative solutions

93. Seems unwilling to take risks, even when presented with a compelling reason

94. Fails to incentivize peers to take creative and innovative risks

95. Is reluctant to find more effective ways to do job activities

Customer Relations

96. Works effectively with clients

97. Has strong rapport with those he/she interacts with

98. Enjoys the people related aspects of the business

99. Is pleasant and projects a friendly tone over the phone

100. Has become a linchpin with clients

101. Consistently spearheads effective customer relations

102. Is empathetic towards customer issues

103. Is direct, yet helpful in dealing with customer concerns

104. Displays an effective cadence when working with clients on projects. Is effective, not overbearing

105. Artfully helps customers overcome objections

106. Can handle difficult customers with grace

107. Consistently receives substandard comments from customers

108. Appears disinterested in helping customers with their challenges

109. Does not manage customer expectations, especially in tough situations

110. Consistently passes challenging issues to others instead of tackling them head-on

111. Misses opportunities to further educate customers about other products or services.

112. Uses inappropriate language with colleagues or customers

113. Appears to become frustrated by clients who ask questions

114. Displays sarcasm when dealing with client challenges

115. Is a good delegator, even with those who don't report directly to him/her 

116. Is able to delegate tasks and responsibilities effectively to appropriate team members 3. Is able to delegate work without micromanaging 

117. Is able to delegate work while maintaining the vision of what is to be accomplished 

118. Is able to delegate work to teammates without fear of losing control 

119. Demonstrates trust in subordinates, allowing them the freedom to make decisions 

120. Designs delegation strategies which provide opportunities for staff members to grow and develop 

121. Seems unwilling, or unable, to give up control of work activities completely when delegating tasks

122. Appears hesitant about allowing subordinates the freedom needed in order to complete delegated tasks successfully 

123. Does not seem confident when delegating tasks or responsibilities; does not inspire confidence in subordinates when delegating work

Flexibility

124. Constantly identifies more efficient ways of doing business


125. Is accepting of constructive criticism


126. Is a well-versed team player capable of handling a variety of assignments


127. Is calm under pressure


128. Is a calming force, especially with [his/her] peer group


129. Shows initiative, and is flexible when approaching new tasks

130. Does not excel at activities which require a high degree of flexibility

131. Tends to resist activities where the path is unknown

132. Appears uninterested in new duties

133. Becomes uptight when the plan changes

Goal-Setting

134. Is effective at goal-setting and challenging oneself

135. Clearly communicates goals and objections to coworkers

136. Is constantly striving to be the best he/she possibly can be

137. Sets concrete and measurable goals

138. Sets aggressive targets to meet business objectives

139. Creates clearly defined goals that align with the company’s mission

140. Proactively shares progress on goals

141. Is inconsistent in defining goals and objectives

142. Struggles to set goals that align with company objectives

143. Sets performance goals that are out of touch with reality

144. Struggles to communicate when deadlines will be missed

145. Leaves peers struggling to understand the status of a project

146. Refuses to delegate to others, attempts to do all the work by himself/herself

147. Is unwilling to claim responsibility for missed goals

148. Is easily distracted and disinterested in focusing to achieve performance goals

149. Finds creative ways to solve problems and improve processes 

150. Is an idea generator, and finds innovative ways to accomplish tasks 

151. Contributes new ideas to team project discussions regularly 

152. Contributes new ideas at staff meetings  

153. Contributes well-thought out suggestions for company improvements 

154. Evolves process improvement ideas in staff meetings 

155. Thinks outside the box when presented with a new challenge

Areas of Improvement 

156. Tends to react negatively when presented with a new problem or challenge which requires innovative thinking 

157. Fails to offer new solutions even when presented with a compelling reason to do so 10. Has difficulty coming up with creative ideas, even when prompted by supervisor 

158. Fails to recognize that all employees should contribute innovative ideas for improvement of company procedures and processes

Create improvement plans with 30-60-90 day templates !

Interpersonal skills

159. Is a good communicator with [his/her] peers, requiring little or no direction in how to communicate 

160.Is a strong team player who thrives on teamwork 

161. Has the ability to diffuse conflict among peers 

162. Has the ability to resolve emotional situations quickly and efficiently 

163. Is able to hear and accurately interpret verbal and nonverbal cues from peers

164. Has the ability to diplomatically handle difficult situations with peers 

165. Has the ability to ensure that [his/her] peers are satisfied with a decision made by a superior

166. Is able to effectively communicate across cultures, geographical regions, etc.

167. Utilizes peer feedback to make improvements in [his/her] interpersonal skills 

168. Is an active listener that is sensitive to both verbal and non-verbal cues from peers 22. Has the ability to approach every situation with confidence 

169. Fails to appropriately respond when receiving negative feedback from coworkers 24. Fails to ask for clarification if [he/she] does not understand what a coworker is trying to tell [him/her] 

170. Does not use constructive criticism from peers in an effort to improve performance at work or in school

171. Does not take initiative or act on positive suggestions given by coworkers68. Uses abrasive language when interacting with peers

172. Displays defensiveness when receiving constructive criticism

173. Appears uncomfortable when asked questions during group discussion

174. Shows sound judgment when evaluating multiple opportunities

175. Comes to reasonable conclusions based on information presented

176. Is fact-based, and refuses to accept emotional arguments when evaluating a decision

177. Remains calm, especially under stress

178. Balances swift decision-making, with the ability to analyze the many angles to a story

179. Is confident and persuasive when making big decisions

180. Consistently understands the core issues at play, enabling him/her to solve problems at a remarkable pace

181. Makes confident decisions when presented with facts and data.

182. Effectively prioritizes urgent matters with those that can wait

183. Effectively outlines the best case (and worst case) scenarios to aid decision-making

184. Makes hasty decisions without first collecting facts & data to inform the decision-making process

185. Consistently displays analysis paralysis when making a decision

186. Makes big decisions without approval from respective parties

187. Is unable to keep confidential information private

188. Approaches decisions with a one-track mindset. Has a “my way or the highway” view of others ideas.

Leadership Ability

189. Is a servant-leader, always willing to help his/her team

190. Gives structure, feedback, and direction to his/her team

191. Consistently recognizes his/her team for a job well done

192. Actively listens to his/her team

193. Creates a culture of dialogue

194. Recognizes staff for a job well done

195. Provides just enough conflict to find the best outcome

196. Balances the strategy of the organization with tactical day-to-day tasks

197. Demonstrates a high bar for ethical behavior

198. Tends to overanalyze problems when a prompt decision is required

199. Fails to plan for the future

200. Sends mixed signals to the team regarding goals and day-to-day activities

201. Rarely gives recognition to his/her team

202. Sets an unreasonably high expectation for his/her team

203. Fails to keep confidential information secret

204. Plays favorites and does not treat each member of the team equally

205. Shows interest in learning new skills and expanding knowledge base 

206. Is willing to take risks to gain new skills and knowledge 

207. Consistently seeks out professional development opportunities 

208. Demonstrates a desire to learn from peers rather than simply teaching them 

209. Is able to learn from past mistakes 

210. Consistently seeks out new experiences 

Needs Improvement 

211. Rarely uses past experience as a guide for decision making in new situations 

212. Does not appear willing to take risks to gain new skills and knowledge 

213. Fails to understand the value of taking risks to gain new skills and knowledge 

214. Has difficulty accepting criticism 

215. Does not like to be told what to do, when, or how to do it

Management skills

216. Is self-motivated

217. Manages time well

218. Sets attainable goals and objectives

219. Is able to effectively prioritize amongst competing demands

220. Is a good negotiator, able to get people to agree to new ideas or actions

221. Communicates clearly and delivers messages in concise, effective ways

222. Recognizes the contributions of peers and subordinates

223. Assigns challenging but appropriate tasks to staff, and provides adequate resources to ensure successful completion of assignments

224. Has difficulty being firm when needed with staff who are underperforming or inefficient 

225. Fails to reward subordinates for hard work or for delivering results on time 

226. Perceives subordinates as too personal and not business-like in their approach to work relationships 

227. Views employees as a cost center rather than an asset for the company's future growth and profitability

Motivation & Drive

228. Constantly pursues learning opportunities

229. Consistently takes on additional responsibility for the team

230. Successfully finds more effective ways to perform a specific task

231. Is constantly looking for new ways to help the team

232. Is always willing to jump in and learn something new

233. Requires little direction when given a new responsibility

234. Is not afraid to take calculated risks

235. Is not afraid to make periodic mistakes

236. Is unwilling to assume responsibilities outside of his/her job description

237. Frequently sows seeds of doubt with the rest of the team

238. Resists opportunities to train and learn new things

239. Contributes few suggestions to projects with ambiguity

240. Can be overzealous, stepping on others’ toes

241. Seems unwilling to learn new things

242. Struggles to do tasks without assistance from peers

243. Is a careful planner, and always considers the end result of [his/her] actions

244. Creates detailed plans to ensure [his/her] work is done efficiently and effectively 

245. Does not leave any loose ends when completing assigned tasks

246. Is able to accurately predict the outcome of [his/her] actions 

247. Is an effective time manager 

248. Sets realistic deadlines for [his/her] work, and does not procrastinate 

249. Does not waste time, and completes [his/her] work efficiently 

250. Is organized, and keeps notes or files with information that may be needed in the future

251. Has difficulty deviating from a previously established plan when new information is revealed 

252. Does not demonstrate much concern for the long-term effects of [his/her] decisions 11. Is slow to start working on an assignment until all details are ironed out 

253. Has difficulty making quick decisions under pressure 

254. Waits until last minute to begin work on an assignment, and becomes stressed during crunch time 

255. Appears disorganized, even though [he/she] is very organized in reality 

256. Appears to lack organization skills in front of peers and upper management 

257. Is unable to prioritize tasks appropriately based on urgency and importance 80. Is constantly late with assignments and projects 

Problem-Solving Skills  

258. Sees problems as challenges to be overcome

259. Brings ideas to the table when discussing problem-solving 

260. Is able to pressure test his/her own ideas in a calm but assertive way 

261. Is able to persuade others that [his/her] solutions are the best course of action 

262. Is able to persuade others with [his/her] ideas 

263. Sets up a system for tracking problems and their solutions 

264. Uses a variety of techniques to solve problems, and is willing to try new approaches 8. Puts in extra time to ensure that problems are solved completely 

265. Is able to explain the rationale behind [his/her] solution to a problem 

266. Demonstrates effective leadership skills when solving group problems 

267. Demonstrates disinterest in pressure testing ideas with others 

268. Does not set up a system for tracking problems and their solutions 

269. Fails to take action when a problem is raised 

270. Fails to explain the rationale behind [his/her] solution to a problem 

271. Does not optimize use of time when working on difficult problems 

272. Does not solve problems in an efficient manner 

273. Is not adept at persuading others to buy into [his/her] ideas 

274. Fails to persuade others that [his/her] solutions are the best course of action 

275. Is unable to pressure test his/her own ideas in a calm but assertive way

Time Management

276. Handles multiple assignments and projects well with limited supervision 

277. Is able to manage numerous assignments with great speed and accuracy 

278. Can effectively prioritize work so that the most critical assignments receive attention first 

279. Manages his/her time in a highly effective manner 

280. Is able to complete assignments even with extended deadlines 

281. Displays a strong ability to manage multiple assignments and projects simultaneously 

282. Does not meet deadlines, even when given ample time 

283. Has difficulty balancing multiple assignments and projects 

284. Does not manage his/her time effectively 

285. Fails to effectively prioritize work so that the most critical assignments receive attention first 

286. Displays a tendency to allow personal issues affect work performance 

Understanding of Job Responsibilities

287. Has a strong understanding of job responsibilities

288. Regularly alerts management of key developments in his/her job function

289. Has deep knowledge that surpasses job expectations

290. Regularly contributes and works with other departments

291. Crafts an extensive network of peers to tackle tough issues

292. Shares knowledge with peers

293. Is constantly sharing industry trends and best practices to create outsized outcomes

294. Is adept in all areas of job responsibility

295. Has little understanding of the competitive landscape

296. Has difficulty locating necessary information to complete job responsibilities

297. Produces many unnecessary errors

298. Produces substandard work

299. Fails to demonstrate a strategic mindset

300. Does not demonstrate mastery of basic concepts in the role

That’s all for now. We’ll continue to update this list of phrases in the future. Again, we strongly recommend offering continuous feedback with your team vs. waiting for an annual performance review. Also, offer an action plan to help all parties navigate difficult situations.

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94 Example Performance Review Phrases and Comments for Skills and Competencies

There are few employees who truly enjoy the idea of annual performance review . The concept of being judged and criticised by those above them can send a shiver down anyone’s spine.

As this can be a nerve-wracking time for employees, continuous learning performance review comments are vital for a comprehensive and positive workplace. The more in-depth, the more good that can come from it and certainly getting your performance review comments and phrases right make a big difference. Here we show you some supervisor comments and recommendations:

What to Include in your Performance Evaluation

• positives and negatives.

Bad performance reviews can lead to low productivity, decreased morale and the chance the employee will leave. This means that it is important to balance the negative comments with some positive  constructive feedback .

Performance reviews are there to identify areas of improvement, but highlighting examples of good work or strengths is key to maintaining a good relationship with your staff. Always keep learning ability performance review phrases.

• Goals and outlooks

As many businesses are very busy, there sometimes isn’t enough time to check in with all of your employees on a personal basis. Although they are getting the work done as a team, you might not be sure how they are progressing individually.

Take the time during a performance review to set out some personal goals with the employee and talk about their role in the wider scheme. This will give them something to strive towards over the course of the year.

• Good constructive feedback

Although you don’t want to fight your staff on every negative aspect of the performance review, you should give them the opportunity to respond to your suggestions.

This may reveal other issues in the business as well as opening the lines of communication with this particular employee. They will certainly respect you more if you give them the chance to provide continuous feedback on their own performance.

• Sample Performance Review Phrases

The saying, “Always choose your words carefully” is applicable not only during inter-personal communication but it holds true in a corporate context as well, especially during sensitive matters like performance reviews.  A performance review needs to be a balanced affair where as a manager or supervisor you are required to state the obvious, and communicate an effective feedback to the employees. The secret is to craft your performance review comments in such a manner to be specific and short and succinct without sounding on the edge.

To develop your ability to learn appraisal comments, heres a comprehensive list of example phrases, comments, and constructive feedback examples as ideas and inspiration for your next performance review , performance self appraisal , 360 peer review , or just offering continuous feedback as part of employee performance and development.

These example performance review phrases can be use when writing comments in a positive or negative feedback context.

• Communication Skills

While covering the communication skills of the employee, you may use the following phrases:

• Effectively communicates his/her point of view and expectations
• Effectively manages communication at all levels (lateral, upward, or downward flow of communication)
• Effectively manages and facilitates meetings and group discussions
• Promotes action/task oriented meetings
• Effectively enforces company values and polices without evoking negative reactions
• Effectively communicates with clients

• Achievements

While writing down the employee’s achievement highlights, you may use the following types of phrases:

• Achieved and exceeded the original set goals of “X” by a margin of “Y%”
• Accomplished optimal levels of performance with great sincerity in areas such as…
• Showcased great team player abilities in executing …..
• Excelled and consistently improved at developing strategies/programs by delivering stellar performance in …..
• Improved his or her overall productivity levels by “X%”
• Showcased proactiveness in various activities both within and outside the project

• Coaching/Training Abilities

While listing down the coaching or training abilities of the employee, you may use the following phrases:

• Offered guidance and support to colleagues/peers by….
• Displayed a genuine interest in listening and addressing the problems shared by employees
• Displayed strong training abilities by using sound training techniques to solve XYZ problems
• Offered to provide continuous training in XYZ domain
• Garnered great support and respect from employees for lending a patient ear to their problems and concerns.
• Created opportunities for employees in areas pertaining to…..

• Interpersonal Skills

While jotting down pointers pertaining to an employee’s interpersonal skills, you may find these sample phrases helpful:

• Builds effective working/professional relationships with…
• Understands the needs of peers and offers a helping hand to…
• Promotes synergy within the team by….
• Follows and abides by the company culture and inspires the same amongst peers
• Builds on understanding and mutual reliance

• Administrative Abilities

While covering the administrative abilities of an employee, you may use a couple of these phrases:

• Developed successful strategies pertaining to administrative tasks such as….which produced amazing results
• Consistently worked towards improvising and examining the effectiveness of XYZ administrative tasks
• Effectively devised better procedures to perform XYZ tasks flawlessly
• Established effective systems for retrieving lost data
• Improved the existing administrative support systems by…
• Effectively maintained and organized documents to avoid duplication

• Innovation Skills

While listing down your inputs regarding an employee’s innovative abilities, you may use the following phrases:

• Tries to innovate even under adverse conditions
• Looks out for innovative solutions
• Contributes towards innovative strategies
• Fosters a spirit of innovation within the team
• Actively participated in innovation events by …..

• Collaboration Skills

Here are a couple of phrases which you can use to describe an employee’s collaborative abilities:

• Encourages team bonding activities
• Brings new ideas and techniques to promote collaboration within the team
• Harbors and builds strong relationships with the team members
• Displays a cooperative and harmonious nature
• Proactively shares expertise with the rest of the team

• Delegation Abilities of Employees at a Senior Level

While writing about the delegation abilities of an employee, you can use the following examples:

• Encourages team members to solve issues at their end
• Encourages and empowers employees to lead by example and provides all the required resources to achieve the same
• Helps team members to gain visibility
• Delegates thoughtfully by matching with an individual’s strengths
• Delegates with precision and clarity

• Attendance

Here are a few sample phrases  to describe an employee’s attendance record :

• Is punctual and consistently on-time to meetings
• Arrives at meetings on time and is always prepared
• Attained perfect attendance over X period
• Schedules time-off according to company policy
• Completes deadlines as promised

• Process Improvement Skills

Here are a couple of phrases which you can use as example while listing down the ability of an employee process improvement skills:

• Displayed consistent overall improvement and growth
• Has an innate ability to think of various types of methods of improvement
• Accomplished amazing results by displaying marked improvement in….
• Can consistently plan on the go towards improvement

• Customer Experience 

Here’s a examples of how to describe Customer Experience competency:

• Works effectively with clients
• Builds strong rapport with clients  he/she interacts with
• Has a pleasant and  friendly tone over the phone
• Consistently drives effective customer experience strategies
• Is empathetic towards customer issues
• Is direct, yet helpful in dealing with customer concerns
• Displays an effective cadence when working with clients on projects. Is effective, not overbearing
• Can handle difficult customers with grace

• Learning Skills

Listed below are some of the examples of how you can jot down the learning ability of an employee during his or her performance review :

• Displays keenness towards learning new methods/techniques/skills
• Is a rapid learner and adapts rapidly as well to changing situations
• Quite open to share his or her learning experience with the peer group
• Encourages and promotes a learning culture in the team

• Creative Abilities

Here are a couple of examples on how you can state the creative abilities of an employee:

• Ability to think out of the box in the most challenging situations
• Ability to think of alternatives such as …..which produced brilliant results
• Constantly strives to experiment to drive results
• Has initiated and executed creative ideas such as……
• Looks out for new approaches and ideas

• Management and Supervisory Skills

Listed below are some of the phrases that you can use to describe the management and supervisory abilities of an employee:

• Consistently provides support to the team
• Promotes one on one communication with the team members to …..
• Provides the team with the required resources to achieve results
• Provides support to the team during times of organizational transitioning
• Provides timely feedback to employees
• Gives credit and recognition to deserving team members
• Always available to lend an ear and support to team members
• Ensures that employees understand their roles and responsibilities clearly

• Critical Thinking and Problem Solving Skills

Here are a couple of phrases which you can use while describing the problem solving abilities of an employee:

• Capable of developing creative solutions
• Look out for creative solutions with a practical approach towards problem solving
• Understands and effectively solves problems instead of focusing on the symptoms
• Posses the ability to propose options in times of need
• Quite resourceful by showing skills to turn problems into opportunities…

• Productivity and Time Management Abilities

While describing an individual’s productivity and time management abilities, you may use the following competency phrases:

• Consistently delivers beyond expectations
• Exceeds the normal standards of output delivery
• Substantially contributes towards the continued growth and operation of the organization
• Is an important pillar of success for the department
• Always meets deadlines consistently
• Displays respect towards the time of others
• Maintains the schedule of meetings

• Potential of an Employee

Here are a couple of examples on how to jot down the potential of an employee:

• Is capable of taking up a higher role with additional responsibilities
• Is capable of being entrusted with bigger assignments and projects
• Can enhance his or her skills further by participating in various classroom or external training programs
• Has the potential to learn new and additional skills for future career advancement

While you can certainly follow the listed competency feedback examples while writing performance review competencies comments or performance appraisals, you must ensure that you support each of your phrases with a relevant and specific example or data rather than assumption.

In the world of HR software, EmployeeConnect continues to be one of the leading industry providers of innovative solutions. We helps Australia business owners and people managers be more efficient, cost-effective and compliant by taking the hassle out of HR and payroll admin. If you spend more than an hour every day on HR administration (like on/off-boarding, performance review, or employee timesheets), then  EmployeeConnect  is here for you.

Byron Conway

Content Coordinator at EmployeeConnect

100 Performance Review Example Phrases & Comments for 2024

Effective performance management forms the backbone of a successful organization. A critical element of this process is the provision of feedback during performance reviews, which directly influences an employee's productivity, job satisfaction, and professional growth.

Specific and personal feedback plays a pivotal role in this scenario. It assists in clearly displaying what an employee is doing well and where they can improve, fostering a culture of continuous learning and development.

Using specific feedback prevents misunderstandings that can arise from vague or generalized statements. When the phrases that are used in performance reviews are specific, they pinpoint exact areas of strength or weakness, which helps employees understand their performance comprehensively. For example, rather than saying "you need to improve your communication," saying "you need to provide more timely responses to internal emails" offers a clear path towards improvement.

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Personalized feedback, meanwhile, recognizes the uniqueness of each employee and their role within the organization. It shows employees that their work is valued and noticed, leading to increased motivation and job satisfaction. Using specific phrases encourages individual performance improvement, and adding a personal touch to these phrases fosters an environment where employees can feel seen, heard, and appreciated.

In this guide, we present 100 phrases and comments to use in employee performance reviews. These examples should serve as inspiration, as we ultimately recommend providing specific and personal feedback to employees.

The examples are separated into the following categories, and further split into positive and critical feedback.

• Communication and interpersonal skills
• Creativity 
• Dependability
• Flexibility
• Quality of work

We have also included example phrases for employees who are receiving a review and trying to learn how to best respond to feedback.

Example Phrases about Aptitude

• "You consistently demonstrate a superdeep understanding of your role and the tasks associated with it. Your strong skill set is a key asset to our team."
• "You have an exceptional ability to grasp complex concepts quickly and apply them effectively in your work."
• "Your problem-solving skills have proven invaluable in situations that require innovative solutions."
• "You have repeatedly shown excellent judgment when making decisions under pressure."
• "Your willingness and ability to learn new skills and procedures quickly is impressive and contributes significantly to our team's success."
• "There are instances when you struggle to grasp new concepts quickly. Additional training or learning resources might be beneficial for you."
• "You've had difficulty applying learned skills to new or unfamiliar situations, which has affected your performance."
• "You seem to have trouble with decision-making in high-pressure situations. Developing stress management techniques could help improve this."
• "There are areas within your role where your understanding seems limited. Let's work on developing your knowledge and skills in these areas."
• "While you're capable in your role, we've noticed struggles in adapting to changes or new procedures. The ability to learn these procedures quickly will be essential moving forward."

Example Phrases about Employee Attendance

• "Your punctuality and reliability set a strong example for our team. Your consistent presence is appreciated and noticed."
• "You have an excellent attendance record. Your dedication and commitment are truly exemplary."
• "Your adherence to your work schedule contributes greatly to our team's productivity and efficiency."
• "You've shown a remarkable consistency in arriving on time and being prepared for meetings and assignments."
• "Your excellent attendance reflects your professionalism and commitment to your role and the team."
• "Your frequent absences have been noticed and are impacting team performance and workflow."
• "Punctuality has been an issue for you. It's important to ensure your timely arrival to maintain the team's efficiency."
• "There have been instances where you've missed critical meetings. Attendance in these situations is crucial for keeping up with information and team decisions."
• "Your irregular attendance is causing scheduling conflicts and impacting the productivity of the team."
• "Improving your reliability and ensuring consistent attendance should be a key focus area for you in the coming months."

Example Phrases about Communication and Interpersonal Skills

• "Your ability to clearly articulate ideas and feedback contributes to our team's overall effectiveness and success."
• "Your open and approachable communication style fosters a positive work environment and aids in conflict resolution."
• "You excel at maintaining open lines of communication with all team members, helping to keep everyone informed and on the same page."
• "Your excellent listening skills and empathy create an environment of mutual respect and understanding within the team."
• "You're highly skilled at conveying complex information in an understandable way, which greatly aids in our team's productivity and collaboration."
• "There have been instances where your messages could be misunderstood due to lack of clarity. Developing your communication skills should be a focus area."
• "While your technical skills are strong, improving your interpersonal skills could help build better relationships within the team."
• "You occasionally tend to dominate conversations, which can prevent others from sharing their views. Actively inviting and listening to others' inputs could help address this."
• "At times, there seems to be a delay in your responses to emails and messages. Prompt communication is crucial for effective team functioning."
• "Improving your ability to convey negative or constructive feedback in a respectful and understanding manner should be a focus for you going forward."

Example Phrases about Creativity

• "Your ability to think outside the box has led to innovative solutions and improvements in our processes."
• "Your creative insights have often resulted in fresh perspectives that benefit our team's work."
• "You consistently demonstrate a high level of creativity and originality in your work, which drives our project success."
• "Your creative problem-solving skills have proven invaluable when faced with complex challenges."
• "You've shown an ability to make imaginative suggestions that have positively influenced our strategies and initiatives."
• "While you're proficient in executing tasks, we would like to see more innovative ideas and creative problem-solving approaches from you."
• "Improving your ability to think creatively should be a focus for you, as this could contribute to more diverse and effective strategies."
• "At times, you tend to stick with what's familiar rather than seeking novel approaches. Embracing creativity can help in overcoming challenging tasks."
• "There seems to be a reliance on conventional methods. Encouraging creativity and exploring new ideas could lead to more effective solutions."
• "While your work is solid, there are opportunities for you to be more inventive in your approach to problem-solving and project execution."

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Example Phrases about Dependability

• "You've consistently demonstrated a high level of reliability, which significantly contributes to our team's success."
• "Your ability to be dependable even in high-stress situations that require much time and effort is commendable and appreciated."
• "You're a dependable team member whom we can always count on to complete high-quality work promptly."
• "Your consistent performance and ability to be relied upon in a variety of situations truly set you apart."
• "You have shown a remarkable level of responsibility and dependability, especially in challenging situations."
• "There have been several instances where tasks assigned to you were not completed on time. Improving reliability should be a priority."
• "At times, you struggle to fulfill your commitments, which has impacted the team's overall productivity."
• "While your individual contributions are valued, improving dependability in terms of deadlines and responsibilities is necessary."
• "There are times when we cannot rely on your work to be completed as promised. Greater consistency in dependability is needed."
• "We have noticed challenges with reliability in meeting assigned tasks and responsibilities. This is an area for development in the coming review period."

Example Phrases about Efficiency and Time Management  

• "Your ability to manage your tasks effectively and deliver results on time is impressive."
• "You consistently produce work that does not need to be revised or looked over within deadlines."
• "Your efficiency and ability to prioritize tasks effectively contribute significantly to our team's productivity."
• "You have shown a remarkable knack for utilizing resources in beneficial ways to meet project objectives."
• "Your proactive approach in planning and managing your time reflects your strong organizational skills."
• "At times, you struggle to manage your workload effectively, which has led to missed deadlines."
• "Improving your time management skills should be a priority as it affects your efficiency and productivity."
• "Your approach to managing tasks can sometimes be inefficient. Working on task prioritization could help improve your performance."
• "There have been instances when the quality of your work was compromised due to poor time management."
• "While you contribute positively to our team, improving efficiency and time management will allow you to excel further in your role."

Example Phrases about Flexibility

• "Your ability to adapt to change and handle unexpected situations effectively is a great asset to our team."
• "You've shown a high level of flexibility in your role, often stepping outside your comfort zone to meet team needs."
• "Your ability to change gears to most actively and beneficially assist with the completion of projects prompts the team to succeed."
• "You have a strong capacity to shift focus and adjust plans when unexpected changes occur."
• "Your open-minded approach and readiness to embrace new ideas and perspectives enhance our team's ability to innovate."
• "At times, you seem to struggle with adapting to new circumstances or changes in plans."
• "While your work is consistent, demonstrating more flexibility in dealing with unexpected situations would be beneficial."
• "Improving your adaptability to sudden changes in project direction should be a focus area for the coming period."
• "There have been instances where your inability to adjust quickly to new tasks has impacted the team's productivity."
• "We would encourage a more open mindset towards change and new ideas, as this will aid in your growth and our team's success."

Example Phrases about Leadership

• "You demonstrate strong leadership qualities by consistently guiding your team members towards achieving their goals."
• "Your ability to inspire and motivate your team contributes significantly to our team's overall success."
• "You've shown excellent leadership in managing projects, driving both process and results."
• "Your effective decision-making skills in challenging situations reflect your strong leadership abilities."
• "Your foresight and strategic planning capabilities set a positive example for your team and have led to successful outcomes."
• "While you're a valuable team member, stepping up and taking more leadership responsibilities could greatly enhance team outcomes."
• "There have been instances where decisive action was needed, and your hesitation led to delayed progress."
• "Improving your ability to motivate and inspire your team should be a key focus area for you."
• "At times, there seems to be a disconnect between you and your team. Enhancing your leadership communication skills could help bridge this gap."
• "While your individual work is strong, there is room for improvement in leading team initiatives and fostering a collaborative environment."

Example Phrases about Quality of Work

• "Your attention to detail and commitment to excellence are clearly reflected in your work."
• "You consistently deliver high-quality work, which significantly contributes to our project success."
• "Your work is frequently cited as a model of excellence for the team."
• "You demonstrate a high level of proficiency and knowledge in your work, resulting in superior quality outcomes."
• "The quality of your work is outstanding and consistently exceeds expectations."
• "While you meet deadlines, there are often errors in your work that need to be addressed for better quality."
• "Improving the accuracy and thoroughness of your work should be a priority in the next period."
• "While your productivity is commendable, the quality of your work has sometimes been compromised."
• "There have been instances where the quality of your work did not meet our team's standards."
• "We would encourage more focus on the details of your tasks, as there have been some issues with the quality of your output."

Overall performance summary comments

• Your exceptional ability to work collaboratively with the team has been a key factor in our overall success this year. Your team spirit is commendable and sets a positive tone in the workplace.
• Your outstanding commitment to improving the workplace has been crucial in creating a positive workplace environment this year. 
• Your consistent dedication to delivering exceptional work has made a significant positive impact on our client and internal relationships this year. Your professionalism is a model for others.
• The consistently high quality of your work throughout the year has been exemplary. Your meticulous attention to detail has raised the standard for our team.
• Your stances throughout the year have driven project success and fostered a positive team environment. Your ability to inspire and motivate is a tremendous asset.
• Improving overall communication skills will be crucial for future success. Enhancing clarity and consistency in communication can lead to better teamwork and project outcomes.
• Focusing generally on time management is essential for meeting our team's objectives. Better prioritization and deadline adherence will greatly benefit project timelines and team dynamics.
• Being flexible in day-to-day operations is important for keeping up with the dynamic nature of our work. Overall, more flexibility and responsiveness will aid in maintaining productivity.
• Strengthening technical skills is important for meeting the evolving demands of our projects. Focusing on continual learning and skill development will improve work efficiency and quality.
• Being more open to feedback will be key to your ongoing professional development. Embracing constructive criticism as a growth opportunity can lead to significant performance improvements.

Job knowledge comments

• Your deep understanding of the latest industry trends is commendable. This knowledge has helped us stay ahead of the curve and make informed decisions.
• Your proficiency in specialized skills has been a significant asset to our team. Your expertise has contributed to the quality and efficiency of our projects.
• You have consistently demonstrated a commitment to learning and adapting, which has kept our strategies relevant and effective. 
• Your ability to apply theoretical knowledge to practical situations has been remarkable. This skill has helped in solving complex problems and improving our processes.
• Your resourcefulness in applying your knowledge to diverse situations has been invaluable, and you've shown great skill in using your understanding to benefit multiple aspects of our work.
• Staying more current with industry developments is needed. Updating your knowledge will help in making more informed decisions and keeping our strategies competitive.
• There's room for improvement in certain technical proficiencies. Enhancing these skills will increase your effectiveness and efficiency in your role.
• Adapting to new technologies and methods more quickly will benefit your performance. Keeping pace with technological advancements is crucial in our field.
• Bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and its practical application is an area for growth. 
• Expanding your knowledge beyond your core area will enhance your versatility and contribution to the team. A broader understanding of related fields will be beneficial for your work. 

Development comments

• Your commitment to professional growth has been evident this year. You have actively sought out learning opportunities and applied new skills effectively in your role, contributing significantly to your team's success.
• Your adaptability to organizational changes has been remarkable. You've embraced new challenges and adjusted your working style, which has positively impacted team performance and project outcomes.
• You have proactively enhanced your skill set to meet the evolving needs of your role. This dedication to self-improvement has improved your work quality and efficiency.
• Your ability to set and achieve realistic, yet challenging goals is commendable. We appreciate your focus.
• Your development in leadership and mentoring skills has been outstanding. You've effectively guided team members, contributing to their growth and the overall team's performance.
• You need to engage more in ongoing learning and development. Keeping skills updated and relevant is crucial for meeting the demands of your role."
• Improving adaptability to organizational changes and new processes is necessary. Embracing change more readily will help in maintaining productivity and meeting team objectives.
• Expand your skill set to encompass new areas relevant to our evolving business needs. This action will enhance your ability to contribute effectively to diverse projects.
• Focusing on setting more clear and achievable professional goals will benefit your career development. It's important to align these goals with team objectives and overall company strategy.
• There is an opportunity to further develop your leadership skills. Engaging in leadership training and seeking opportunities to lead projects will enhance your effectiveness in a supervisory role.

Technical expertise comments

• Your advanced technical knowledge in your field has been a significant asset to our team. You have consistently applied this expertise to enhance our project outcomes and efficiency.
• Your ability to implement innovative technical solutions has greatly contributed to our team's success. Your creative approach to problem-solving has set a high standard.
• You have effectively utilized the latest technology to improve our processes. Your proficiency in adapting and applying new tools has been exemplary.
• Your willingness to share your technical skills with colleagues has fostered a learning environment within the team. This has enhanced the overall skill set of the team and improved collaboration.
• Your commitment to continuous technical learning and staying abreast of industry developments is commendable. This proactive approach has kept our team competitive and innovative.
• You need to update your technical knowledge to stay current with industry standards. Engaging in continuous learning will enhance your effectiveness in your role.
• Improve the application of your technical skills to real-world scenarios. Focusing on practical implementation will lead to better project outcomes."
• We need you to adapt more quickly and effectively to new technologies. Staying abreast of technological advancements will improve your work efficiency and the team's performance.
• We would ask to to enhance your ability to communicate technical information in a more accessible way. Clear communication of technical aspects is key to project success.
• Expanding your range of technical skills to include emerging tools and methodologies is recommended. Broadening your technical expertise will increase your versatility and value to the team.

Compliance comments

• Your strict adherence to company policies and industry regulations has been exemplary. Your commitment to compliance has helped maintain high standards of integrity and professionalism in our team.
• We appreciate that you have proactively taken measures to ensure compliance in all aspects of your work. This foresight has helped prevent potential issues and has set a positive example for the team."
• Your ability to identify and manage compliance risks effectively has been a key asset. You've consistently demonstrated a deep understanding of the regulatory environment and its impact on our operations.
• Your efforts in training and guiding team members on compliance matters have been invaluable. This has helped in building a culture of compliance and awareness within the team.
• Your commitment to staying updated with the latest company regulations and standards is commendable. This knowledge has been crucial in navigating the complexities of our industry.
• Improving your understanding of our company policies and industry regulations is necessary. Greater awareness and adherence to these guidelines will enhance your work compliance.
• There is a need for more proactive engagement with compliance issues. Anticipating and addressing potential compliance challenges will benefit the team and the company.
• We need you to develop stronger skills in identifying and managing compliance risks is important. A more proactive approach in this area will help mitigate potential issues.
• Enhancing the way you communicate compliance-related information to the team is crucial. Clear and effective communication is key to ensuring that everyone is on the same page.
• Regularly update your knowledge of company regulations and best practices. Keeping abreast of these developments is essential for maintaining the integrity and success of our operations."

Teamwork comments

• Your ability to collaborate effectively with team members has greatly contributed to our team's success. Your willingness to share ideas and resources has enhanced our projects.
• Your engagement in team activities and discussions is always constructive and positive. You consistently contribute valuable insights and support, fostering a collaborative environment.
• Your support for fellow team members, especially in challenging situations, has been outstanding. Your assistance and encouragement have helped others overcome obstacles and succeed
• Your skills in resolving conflicts within the team are commendable. You approach disagreements with a diplomatic and fair mindset, helping to maintain a harmonious and productive team atmosphere.
• Your efforts in building team spirit and a sense of unity are notable. You’ve played a key role in creating an inclusive and motivating team environment.
• There is a need to enhance collaboration with your team members. More active participation and willingness to share ideas will improve team dynamics and project outcomes.
• Increasing your engagement in team activities and discussions is important. Active participation and contribution to team efforts are essential for achieving our collective goals.
• Offering more support and assistance to colleagues can strengthen the team. Working together and helping each other is crucial for our team’s success.
• Improving your conflict management skills within the team is necessary. Addressing disagreements constructively and seeking resolutions can help maintain a positive team environment.
• Contributing more actively to team morale and spirit is recommended. A more involved approach will help foster a supportive and inclusive atmosphere among team members.

Integrity comments

• Your consistent honesty and transparency in communication have fostered a trustful atmosphere in our team. This approach has significantly contributed to building a strong, ethical work environment.
• Your commitment to ethical decision-making, even in challenging situations, has been exemplary. You've consistently demonstrated strong moral principles, which have set a positive example for the team.
• You have shown commendable accountability for your actions. Your willingness to own up to mistakes and learn from them has been a key factor in building integrity within our team.
• Your respect for colleagues and clients, irrespective of the situation, has been noteworthy. This respect has helped in maintaining a professional and ethical work environment.
• You consistently uphold our company's values in your work and interactions. This integrity has not only enhanced your reputation but also positively reflected on our team and company.
• Improving consistency in ethical conduct is needed. Aligning all actions with our company’s ethical standards will enhance trust and credibility in your role.
• There is a need to practice greater transparency in communication. Open and honest exchanges will build stronger trust within the team and with clients.
• Taking greater responsibility and accountability for your actions will improve trust and respect among team members. Acknowledging and learning from mistakes is key to personal growth.
• You should enhance respect in all professional interactions, especially under pressure. Maintaining a respectful demeanor contributes to a positive and ethical work environment.
• We need you to align more closely with the organization's values in your daily work. This alignment is crucial for maintaining the integrity and reputation of our team and company.

Self-appraisal comments 

In addition to responding to continuous feedback readily, a prepared employee needs to examine and evaluate his or her work consistently. Using self-appraisal phrases can be a sure-fire way to show an employer valuable self-analysis practices. 

• This year, I feel that I have successfully adapted to various changes in our projects and workflows. I've embraced new challenges and adjusted my strategies to maintain productivity and meet our team's goals.
• I believe my communication skills have positively impacted our team's dynamics. I have consistently made an effort to keep everyone informed and engaged, ensuring clarity in our project goals and processes.
• I pride myself on my reliability. Throughout the year, I have consistently met deadlines and maintained a high standard of quality in my work, contributing to the team's overall success.
• Working collaboratively with the team has been a key strength of mine. I've actively participated in team meetings, shared ideas, and supported my colleagues, which has helped achieve our collective objectives.
• I have dedicated myself to continuous learning and skill development. This year, I've attended several workshops and training sessions to enhance my expertise, which has been beneficial in my role.
• I recognize that I need to improve my time management skills. Balancing multiple tasks has been challenging, and I've noticed some delays in my project deliveries. I plan to work on better prioritizing my tasks and managing my time.
• I admit that I sometimes find it hard to accept constructive criticism. I realize the importance of being more open to feedback and using it to grow professionally.
• I have observed that I tend to react to problems rather than anticipate them. Going forward, I aim to develop a more proactive approach to identify and solve potential issues before they escalate.
• I am aware that my technical skills need updating to keep pace with the latest industry standards. I plan to focus on enhancing these skills through additional training and practice.
• Although I've taken on some leadership roles, I recognize the need to further develop my leadership skills. I intend to seek opportunities for leadership training and take on more responsibilities to grow in this area.

Example Phrases for Employees When Responding to Feedback

These above characteristics and phrases are important to give context to employees regarding their performance. Additionally, employees should also be able to aptly respond to these praises and criticisms. The following are general examples of ways an employee could respond to his or her manager after hearing some of the previous phrases.  

Responses to Positive Feedback

• "Thank you for recognizing my efforts. Your positive feedback motivates me to continue improving and contributing to the team's success."
• "I appreciate your feedback. It's been a pleasure working on these projects, and I'm glad to see they've had a positive impact."
• "I'm grateful for your kind words. I'll strive to maintain this performance and explore other areas where I can contribute positively."
• "Thank you for your encouragement. Your feedback provides me with the confidence to take on more challenging tasks."
• "I really appreciate your appreciation. It feels good to know that my hard work is helping the team and the company."

Responses to Critical Feedback:

• "I hear your concerns, and I know I need to improve. Are there specific recommendations for how I could improve for the team’s sake?"
• "I appreciate your honesty. Your feedback helps me identify my blind spots, and I am committed to improving in these areas."
• "Your feedback is valuable to me. I see these areas as opportunities for growth and will create an action plan to improve."
• "I understand your concerns and agree that there's room for improvement. I'll make it a priority to work on these areas."
• "Thank you for bringing this to my attention. I apologize for any issues caused, and I'm committed to learning from this feedback and improving my performance."

Employees shouldn't have to spend so much time on performance reviews. Tell your HR team to streamline the process with PerformYard Learn More

Additional Considerations

Performance reviews are an essential component of employee development, employee engagement , and overall organizational growth. These phrases allow for the most helpful and constructive levels of performance management. In addition to using these phrases, the best way to keep performance reviews both effective and efficient is to maintain a structured process that is consistent, fair, and objective.

Preparing in advance is a key aspect. This includes clearly defining the criteria for assessment based on job roles and responsibilities, setting measurable goals, gathering relevant data about the employee's performance, and outlining the points for discussion.

Meanwhile, during the review, managers should provide balanced feedback, highlighting both strengths and areas of improvement. The conversation should be interactive, allowing employees to ask questions, share their perspectives, and discuss their career aspirations.

Using performance management software can also be a game-changer in streamlining performance reviews. These tools offer a centralized platform to keep track of performance data, set and monitor goals, schedule review meetings, and record feedback. PerformYard makes the process less time-consuming and more accurate.

Performance management software also allows for real-time feedback, making reviews timelier and more relevant. Using such software ensures that nothing important is overlooked and that the process is transparent, both of which can significantly enhance the effectiveness of performance reviews.

Furthermore, these tools often come with HR analytics that can provide valuable insights for decision-making. Hence, integrating performance review software into performance review processes can dramatically improve their efficiency and effectiveness, ultimately leading to improved employee performance and organizational success.

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100 Employee Performance Review Comments and Phrases!

by Emre Ok July 3, 2024, 6:36 pm updated July 29, 2024, 8:02 am 92k Views

In this freshly updated list, you will find 100 of the best performance review comments on some of the most relevant performance appraisal topics today.

We know that every leader and reviewer has their own rapport with their employees and the performance review phrases they use will rely heavily on that very relationship.

The performance review comments and phrases in this list are only meant to serve as a structural guide for reviewers as they respond to their employees during performance appraisals.

While the sample review phrases on this list can simply be used as they are, what we recommend is that you make adjustments using examples from real cases and occurrences from that employee’s performance through the review period.

Before we move on with our list of performance review comments examples, we also wanted to provide you with one of the easiest ways you can respond to performance reviews!

Table of Contents

Can I use AI to write performance review comments? 

Yes, you can! For those reviewers who have too many performance reviews to comment on but still want to respond to them personally effectively, using an AI writing assistant is a solid idea.  

Teamflect’s digital performance review templates come with a built-in AI writing assistant that allows reviewers to enhance their review responses and comments with the help of AI! When responding to a performance review, you have the option: 

• Lengthen 
• Shorten 
• Formalize 
• Spell Check 
• Regenerate 

Your review comments, as well as check for biased language! You can try this feature alongside customizable digital performance review templates right inside Microsoft Teams by clicking the button below. 

Performance Review Phrases About Communication Skills 

While communication skills are a key aspect of employee performance and have a place in performance appraisals, performance review comments or phrases about communication skills have a very thin line to walk. Out of all the supervisor comments examples on this list, review phrases about communication skills have the most risk of making the employee feel like this is a direct attack on their personality. 

While many aspects of employee performance or position-related competencies depend on voluntary decisions and planned actions, how individuals communicate is more natural and reflexive. To help you navigate this area, here are sample performance review phrases about communication skills. 

Positive Performance Review Phrases:  

• “You consistently impress with how you communicate your ideas and feedback so clearly and effectively. You ensuring everyone understands your perspective and that is a huge asset to your team.  
• “You excel at active listening and it helps you address concerns and provide thoughtful responses to your team members.”  
• “You regularly use clear and concise language in your written communications. Messages from you are always easy to understand, leaving no room for misunderstandings.”  
• “Regardless of the situation, you always maintain a positive and approachable demeanor and it hasn’t gone unnoticed! You easily encourage open communication and collaboration among your colleagues.”  
• “You effectively facilitate meetings, ensuring all participants have a chance to contribute and feel heard.”  

Constructive Performance Review Comments:  

• “You could benefit from providing more detailed explanations when sharing complex information to ensure all team members fully grasp the concepts.”  
• “You sometimes dominate conversations, which can make it difficult for others to share their thoughts. Try to balance speaking and listening.”  
• “You might improve your communication by considering the audience’s perspective and tailoring your messages accordingly.”  
• “You tend to rely heavily on email for important communications. Incorporating more face-to-face or virtual meetings could enhance clarity and understanding.”  
• “You could work on managing your tone and body language during stressful situations to avoid misunderstandings and maintain a positive work environment.”  

Examples of Quality of Work Performance Review Phrases  

Performance review comments about quality of work form the backbone of the performance appraisal process. More often than not the quality of an employee’s work is one of the most simple and direct indicators of high or low performance. As is the case with all different performance feedback types, there are some areas to be mindful of. 

Regardless of an individual’s seniority in the organization, whether we are writing performance review comments for managers or direct reports, we need to keep in mind that people have a tendency to fall in love with their work. When that work is criticized without care, it may damage the relationship. Below you will find performance review comment examples on quality of work: 

Positive Phrases:  

• “The work you deliver is consistently at a very high quality. This not only reflects well on your performance and benefits the organization but also sets a high standard for your teammates..”  
• “You pay great attention to detail. We’ve noticed that your work is always crisp, accurate and free from errors.”  
• “This review period, you’ve demonstrated a strong commitment to excellence, regularly going above and beyond to produce outstanding results.”  
• “I can see that you show a deep understanding of your tasks, which is reflected in the high quality of your outputs.”  
• “You take pride in your work, consistently producing thorough and well-researched deliverables.”  

Constructive Phrases:  

• “You could benefit from dedicating more time to reviewing your work to ensure it meets the expected quality standards.”  
• “You sometimes rush through tasks, leading to avoidable errors. While we appreciate your desire to be more productive, slowing down and double-checking your work could enhance its quality.”  
• “You might improve the quality of your work by seeking feedback from peers and incorporating their suggestions.”  
• “You tend to overlook minor details, which can affect the overall quality of your work. Paying closer attention to these details could improve your results.”  
• “You could work on enhancing the thoroughness of your work by ensuring all aspects of a task are fully addressed before considering it complete.”  

Performance Review Comments About Role-Related Competencies 

One of the core goals of a performance review is the development of talent. Employee performance should be evaluated with the intention of helping that employee grow and develop their skills in order to improve that very performance within the upcoming review period.  

In order to achieve that very goal, discussing role-related competencies is a must. While the performance review comments and phrases in this section are on the more general side when it comes to employee competencies, these example phrases can be customized to match the competency framework your organization uses. 

• “Throughout the review period, you’ve demonstrated a high level of expertise in your role, consistently applying your knowledge and skills to achieve excellent results.”  
• “You are proficient in using the tools and technologies required for your job, which enhances your efficiency and productivity.”  
• “You continuously seek to improve your competencies by staying updated with the latest industry trends and best practices.”  
• “You effectively apply your problem-solving skills to overcome challenges and find innovative solutions.”  
• “You exhibit strong analytical abilities, enabling you to make data-driven decisions that benefit the team and organization.”  
• “You could benefit from further developing your technical skills to better meet the demands of your role.”  
• “You might improve your job performance by seeking out additional training or professional development opportunities.”  
• “You sometimes struggle with applying theoretical knowledge to practical situations. Gaining more hands-on experience could help bridge this gap.”  
• “You could work on enhancing your decision-making skills by thoroughly analyzing all available information before taking action.”  
• “You tend to rely on familiar methods and approaches. Exploring new techniques and innovative solutions could improve your job performance.”  

Examples of Initiative Performance Review Phrases  

Taking initiative at work is a great indicator of a high-performing employee. That is why the discussion of taking initiative is always welcome in performance appraisals. Taking initiative not only shows the employee has taken ownership of their role and responsibilities but also how they are willing to take on more work.  

The discussion of initiative in performance reviews can quite easily facilitate conversations of succession planning and career pathing . The initiative performance review phrases below are there to help you kickstart those conversations in self reviews . 

• “You’ve shown a strong tendency to take the initiative to identify and tackle problems before they escalate. This is a sign of your proactive attitude.”  
• “You are always willing to take on additional responsibilities and go above and beyond your regular duties.”  
• “On many different occasions, you’ve proposed new ideas and improvements. This shows your commitment to enhancing our processes and outcomes.”  
• “You take the lead on projects, coordinating efforts and ensuring tasks are completed efficiently and effectively.”  
• “You demonstrate strong self-motivation, regularly seeking out opportunities to contribute to the team’s success.”  

Constructive Review Phrases:  

• “We know you are capable of contributing more. You could be a bit more proactive in identifying areas where you can help without waiting for direction.”  
• “You sometimes hesitate to take on new challenges. Embracing a more proactive mindset could help you grow in your role. We trust your judgement. So should you.”  
• “You have the potential to be more effective by simply taking the initiative to address issues as they arise, as opposed to waiting for them to be assigned.”  
• “You could work on suggesting solutions to problems you identify, rather than just pointing them out.”  
• “You tend to rely on others to drive projects forward. Taking more ownership and initiative could enhance your impact on the team’s success.”  

Performance Appraisal Comments About Problem-Solving 

While each role may have its own set of competencies associated with it, the ability to solve problems as they arise is a competency shared by almost any role in an organization. So it is only natural to have performance evaluation phrases about problem solving.  

Below are 10 supervisor comment examples about an employee’s problem-solving skills. While these review phrases can be used as they are, we strongly recommend you customize them to reflect specific instances where an employee’s problem-solving skills were on display.  

• “It hasn’t gone unnoticed that you demonstrate strong problem-solving skills. You quickly identify the root causes of issues and nd develop effective solutions.”  
• “You approach challenges with a positive attitude, using creative thinking to overcome obstacles and achieve goals.”  
• “You excel at analyzing complex problems and breaking them down into manageable components. On many occasions, you’ve made it easier to find solutions.”  
• “You actively seek out information and resources to address problems, demonstrating resourcefulness and initiative.”  
• “The way you effectively collaborate with team members to brainstorm and implement solutions has enhanced the overall problem-solving process in our organization.”  
• “We believe you are capable of developing a more structured approach to problem-solving, and ensure all potential solutions are thoroughly evaluated.”  
• “There have been instances in which you’ve focused on the symptoms of a problem rather than the underlying cause. Identifying the root issue could lead to more effective solutions.”  
• “You might improve your problem-solving skills by seeking input from colleagues and considering diverse perspectives.”  
• “You have the tendancy to rush through the problem-solving process. This in turn can result in overlooking important details. Slowing down and being more thorough could enhance your effectiveness.”  
• “You could work on becoming more proactive in identifying potential problems before they arise, allowing for preemptive action.”  

Performance Review Comments About Time Management 

Another key area that has gained more and more prominence in performance appraisals is time management. Performance review comments and questions about time management skills have over time evolved to reflect an employee’s ability to maintain a healthy work-life balance. 

Creating a culture where your employees know just how much you value their work-life balance can help immensely with issues such as employee disengagement and feeling burnt out.  

• “You regularly complete tasks ahead of schedule, demonstrating excellent time management skills and reliability.”  
• “We appreciate the way you prioritize your workload. You always ensure that high-priority tasks are completed on time and with high quality.”  
• “You are adept at managing your time during meetings, keeping discussions focused and productive.”  
• “You set an example with your use of productivity tools and techniques to stay organized and manage your time efficiently.”  
• “You balance multiple projects seamlessly, meeting all deadlines without compromising the quality of your work.”  
• “We’ve noticed that you could be setting clearer priorities to ensure that high-impact tasks are completed on time.”  
• “You sometimes take on too many tasks at once, which can lead to missed deadlines. Delegating when appropriate might help manage your workload more effectively.”  
• “We appreciate the amount of work you are taking on. Perhaps you could make your life easier by breaking down larger projects into smaller, more manageable tasks with specific deadlines.”  
• “There have been instances where we noticed that you underestimate the time required for some tasks. Allocating buffer time could help in managing unforeseen delays.”  
• “You could work on minimizing distractions during work hours to enhance your focus and productivity.”  

Leadership Performance Review Comments  

Performance reviews are often meant to be followed up with succession planning . Whether that includes using the 9-box talent grid or mapping out career paths for employees, this process more often than not includes the employee moving on to roles that rely more heavily on their leadership skills. 

For that and many other reasons beyond counting, we put together a list of performance review phrases about leadership. These review comments are centered around recognizing the areas in which an employee’s leadership skills shined as well as discussing some areas of improvement. 

• “You demonstrate exceptional leadership skills, consistently guiding your team towards achieving their goals with clarity and motivation.”  
• “You lead by example, maintaining high standards of integrity and professionalism that inspire others to follow.”  
• “You excel at delegating tasks effectively, ensuring that team members are empowered and tasks are completed efficiently.”  
• “You possess strong decision-making abilities, confidently addressing challenges and making informed choices that benefit the team.”  
• “You foster a positive and inclusive work environment, promoting teamwork and collaboration among all team members.”  
• “Improving your communication with team members can help ensure everyone is aligned and informed about key objectives.”  
• “You still have some room to grow when it comes to providing constructive feedback. Developing this skill could help team members grow and improve their performance.”  
• “You could improve leadership effectiveness by being more open to input and ideas from your team.”  
• “You could work on better managing conflict within the team, addressing issues promptly and fairly to maintain a harmonious work environment.”  
• “You tend to take on too many tasks yourself. Delegating more effectively could help you focus on strategic priorities and develop your team’s skills.”  

Performance Review Comments About Creativity

The last “specific” performance review comment area we want to highlight on this list is perhaps the most versatile of them all. Performance review phrases about creativity and innovation are truly necessary. Whether you are praising an employee’s creativity or simply encouraging them to be more innovative, the discussion of creativity in performance appraisals is gaining more importance every single day. 

• “You bring fresh and innovative ideas to the table. We’ve seen how this helps drive the team’s creative efforts forward.”  
• “You have, throughout the review period, demonstrated a strong ability to think outside the box, finding unique solutions to complex problems.”  
• “You are always willing to experiment with new approaches, and they often lead to successful and innovative outcomes.”  
• “You inspire creativity in others by encouraging a collaborative and open-minded work environment.”  
• “You regularly contribute original and valuable ideas that enhance our projects and processes.”  

Areas of Improvement Phrases:  

• “We appreciate your consistency but we believe you could benefit from taking more risks with your ideas, even if they are unconventional, to foster greater innovation.”  
• “You tend to focus on traditional methods, which can limit creativity. Embracing a more open approach could lead to more innovative solutions.”  
• “We know you have a lot of creative potential. You can improve your creative output by seeking inspiration from a wider range of sources and industries.”  
• “Have you considered working on developing your brainstorming techniques to generate a broader array of creative ideas.”  
• “Your commitment to excellence sometimes results in you overthinking new ideas. This can stifle innovation. Trusting your instincts more could help unleash your creative potential.”

Overall Performance Comments 

We didn’t want to provide you with just very specific appraisal comments. Below we included some overall performance review comments and phrases that can be used in a variety of different performance appraisal scenarios. 

Positive Overall Performance Review Phrases:  

• “You have exceeded expectations in your role and demonstrated exceptional performance alongside a strong commitment to our organization’s goals.”  
• “You show remarkable dedication and enthusiasm for your work, consistently delivering high-quality results.”  
• “You are a reliable and valued team member who regularly contributes innovative ideas and solutions.”  
• “You exhibit excellent leadership qualities, effectively managing your responsibilities and inspiring your colleagues.”  
• “You have shown significant growth and development over the past year, continuously improving your skills and performance.”  
• “We’ve noticed that you could be setting clearer goals and priorities to help focus your efforts and improve your overall performance.”  
• “You on occasion struggle with meeting deadlines. Enhancing your time management skills could lead to more consistent results.”  
• “We appreciate your effort but we believe there is still room to grow. You could build upon your overall performance by seeking regular feedback and actively working on areas for development.”  
• “You have a tendency to rely heavily on established methods. Being open to new approaches and ideas could enhance your effectiveness.”  
• “You could work on building stronger relationships with your colleagues to improve teamwork and collaboration.”  

Examples of Self-Appraisal Comments by Employees 

No performance review would be complete without a self-review on behalf of the employee. So here are some examples of self-appraisal comments by employees. If you have a performance appraisal coming up and you are not quite certain how you should phrase the self-review section, these employee self-review examples can surely be of assistance! 

• “I believe I always strive to exceed expectations in my role by delivering high-quality work and meeting deadlines efficiently.”  
• “I take pride in my ability to collaborate effectively with my team, fostering a positive and productive work environment.”  
• “I have demonstrated strong leadership skills by successfully managing projects and guiding my team to achieve our objectives.”  
• “I am committed to continuous improvement, regularly seeking out opportunities for professional development and skill enhancement.”  
• “I have effectively managed my time and resources, balancing multiple tasks and projects to ensure timely and successful completion.”  
• “I recognize that I need to improve my time management skills to better prioritize tasks and meet all deadlines consistently.”  
• “I acknowledge that I could benefit from seeking more feedback from my colleagues and supervisors to identify areas for growth.”  
• “I am working on enhancing my communication skills to ensure that my ideas and feedback are clearly understood by the team.”  
• “I realize that I sometimes hesitate to take on new challenges, and I am committed to being more proactive in seeking out opportunities.”  
• “I understand the importance of delegating tasks more effectively to empower my team and focus on strategic priorities.”  

How to write performance review comments?

When you’re writing performance review comments, there are some things you should make sure your performance review comments always are. Three key things to keep in mind as you’re writing your performance review comments are:

1. Start with positive feedback: Begin your comments with positive feedback to set a constructive tone and make the employee feel valued.

2. Focus on behavior: Focus on the employee’s behavior, rather than their personality. This helps the feedback feel less personal and more actionable.

3. Avoid vague language: Avoid using vague language like “good job” or “needs improvement.” Instead, be specific about what the employee did well or what they need to work on.

What should I avoid saying in performance reviews?

Performance reviews are a crucial part of employee development and growth within any organization. They provide an opportunity for constructive feedback and goal-setting. Delivering effective performance appraisal comments can be challenging, and using the wrong words or phrases can have a detrimental impact on your team’s morale and productivity. So in this particular section, we’ll explore what you shouldn’t say in performance reviews and provide examples to steer clear of these pitfalls. Negative Language Avoid using harsh or negative language in your performance appraisal comments. Phrases like “You always” or “You never” can be demotivating and unproductive. Instead, focus on specific behaviors or incidents and provide constructive feedback. Example: Instead of saying, “You always miss deadlines,” try, “I noticed a few instances where deadlines were not met. Let’s work together to improve your time management skills.” Comparative Statements Refrain from making direct comparisons between employees in your performance review examples. Using phrases like “You’re not as good as [colleague]” can create unhealthy competition and resentment among team members. Instead, concentrate on individual strengths and areas for improvement. Example: Avoid saying, “You’re not as efficient as Sarah,” and opt for, “I believe you can further improve your efficiency by implementing time-saving techniques.” Vague Feedback Performance review phrases that lack specificity can be frustrating for employees. Avoid vague comments like, “You need to do better” or “Your work has room for improvement.” Instead, provide clear examples and suggest actionable steps for improvement. Example: Say, “Your recent project lacked detailed documentation. To improve, please make sure to document all processes thoroughly for future projects.” Personal Criticisms Keep your performance appraisal comments focused on work-related matters. Avoid making personal criticisms or judgments about an employee’s character or personality. Example: Don’t say “You’re too introverted for this role,” and opt for, “To excel in this role, consider taking on more proactive communication and teamwork initiatives.”

How to make supervisor comments and recommendations?

As a supervisor, it is your job to offer supervisor comments and recommendations to your direct reports. While this may seem like a mundane task at first, effective supervisor comments and recommendations can prove to be the most valuable out of all your performance review comments.

1. What is the point of your supervisor comments and recommendations? Many leaders fall under the false impression that since they are a supervisor, they are under the obligation to offer comments and recommendations. Unless there is a distinct purpose behind your supervisor comments and recommendations, you should abstain from handing them out. Or you will start skirting the dangerous line into the micro-management territory!

2. Do your homework first! To make sure your comments and recommendations as a supervisor are hitting the mark, you need to do your research and do it well! Some of the best ways to gather that information include:

Pulse Surveys 360-Degree Feedback Anonymous Feedback Check-in Meetings

3. Focus on solutions instead of problems. Instead of just pointing out problems, provide recommendations for improvement. Better yet, turn your feedback session into a discussion where you and your direct reports brainstorm on fixing any existing problems together. Supervisor comments and recommendations are opportunities to show your team that you’re in it together.

Here is a quick video tutorial on just how you can gather 360-degree feedback inside Microsoft Teams:

Related Posts:

Written by emre ok.

Emre is a content writer at Teamflect who aims to share fun and unique insight into the world of performance management.

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Performance review phrases for employee evaluation (with examples)

The purpose of employee performance reviews is to evaluate an employee’s work performance, provide feedback on strengths and areas for improvement, set goals for future development, and foster communication and alignment between employees and management regarding expectations and objectives. The important thing is to communicate feedback in a way that is objective as possible and easy for employees and managers to understand . This list of performance review phrases will help you conduct evaluations fairly and effectively .

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Performance review comments example

Phrases for employee strengths and weaknesses, performance review career goals examples.

PHRASES FOR PERFORMANCE EVALUATION

• Collaboration performance review comments
• Teamwork performance review comments
• Professionalism and Commitment phrases
• Attendance performance review comments
• Productivity and Quality of Work phrases
• Adaptability performance review comments
• Communication Skills/Interpersonal skills phrases
• Innovation and Creativity performance review comments
• Accountability performance review comments
• Customer Focus and Customer Satisfaction phrases
• Decision making and problem solving phrases
• Dependability and Reliability performance review comments
• Integrity performance review comments
• Flexibility performance review comments
• Leadership and Management performance review comments
• Initiative performance review comments
• Job knowledge performance review comments
• Planning and Organization performance review comments
• Time Management performance review comments
• Attitude performance review comments

Performance review closing comments

• Do performance reviews with software ✅

There are many different types of employee performance reviews , using a variety of performance management tools such as a 9-box grid . Another type of review employs 360 degree feedback which is a common feature of continuous performance management .

The way the phrases listed in this article could be used are demonstrated in the performance review comment example below:

During an annual employee performance review , a manager might provide a comment such as “John consistently demonstrates exceptional problem-solving skills, effectively resolving complex challenges.” This comment serves as an example of John’s strength in problem-solving and can be used to highlight his positive contributions and areas of expertise within the team. Additionally, it can serve as a basis for discussing specific accomplishments and areas for further development during the performance review discussion.

Employee strengths and weaknesses can be gauged in a performance review through objective metrics, self-assessment, manager evaluation, 360-degree feedback, performance appraisal forms, behavioral interviews, and skill assessments. These methods provide a comprehensive understanding of an employee’s performance, helping to identify areas of excellence and areas needing improvement.

When phrasing employee strengths and weaknesses during a performance review, it’s important to be specific, objective, and constructive. Here are some tips:

• Be Specific: Use concrete examples and evidence to support your assessments rather than generalizations.
• Focus on Behaviors: Describe observable behaviors and actions rather than making assumptions about personality traits.
• Use Positive Language: Frame strengths positively to acknowledge achievements and motivate further development. For weaknesses, use constructive language that emphasizes opportunities for improvement.
• Provide Context: Consider the employee’s role, responsibilities, and the organization’s goals when evaluating strengths and weaknesses.
• Offer Support: For weaknesses, suggest strategies for improvement and offer resources or training opportunities to help the employee develop.
• Balance: Recognize that every employee has strengths and weaknesses, and aim to provide a balanced assessment that acknowledges both.
• Remove bias: Removing bias from reviews involves objectively evaluating employees’ performance based on measurable criteria and avoiding subjective judgments or preconceived notions.

Take a look at the following examples on how employee strengths and weaknesses can be phrased during a performance review cycle.

Performance review strength

Example Phrases for addressing employee strengths:

• “Sarah consistently demonstrates strong leadership skills by effectively guiding her team to achieve project milestones ahead of schedule.”
• “Tom’s exceptional communication skills foster a positive team dynamic and enhance collaboration across departments.”
• “Lisa’s attention to detail ensures accuracy and precision in all her work, contributing to the high quality of deliverables.”

Performance review weakness

Example Phrases for addressing employee weaknesses:

• “While John excels in technical skills, he could benefit from improving his time management to meet project deadlines more consistently.”
• “While Rachel demonstrates creativity in problem-solving, she occasionally struggles with accepting feedback and incorporating it into her work.”
• “David’s excellent interpersonal skills could be further enhanced by actively seeking out opportunities to mentor junior team members.”

Now that you know how to conduct performance reviews and phrase feedback in a way that is useful to employees and managers, read through the examples below to find the phrases you need for all situations.

Although performance reviews can be stressful for managers and employees alike, they provide an excellent opportunity to connect with employees and understand their career aspirations . By engaging in these discussions, managers can gain valuable insights into employees’ goals and preferences, helping to align organizational objectives with individual development paths . This proactive approach fosters a supportive and collaborative work environment, ultimately benefiting both employees and the organization as a whole.

Performance review phrases collaboration

Giving employees feedback on collaboration is crucial. It helps improve teamwork, resolves conflicts, and builds trust. Feedback also guides continuous learning and ensures everyone is working towards the same goals.

Use these phrases to give employees constructive performance review feedback on collaboration.

Meets or Exceeds Expectations

• Demonstrates assistance to coworkers with tasks, even if outside direct responsibility.
• Consistently aids coworkers facing task difficulties.
• Effectively promotes cooperation to ensure team productivity and meet deadlines.
• Displays willingness to offer assistance.
• Receives constructive criticism positively.
• Ensures assignments are followed through and followed up with.
• Volunteers to aid other teams in meeting their goals.
• Readily shares information and resources with colleagues.
• Strives to understand diverse perspectives and find common ground.
• Recognizes and credits others’ contributions.
• Facilitates constructive conflict resolution by considering all sides.
• Treats all colleagues equally regardless of role or level.
• Keeps others informed of progress for collaborative input.
• Demonstrates flexibility in reaching mutually beneficial agreements.
• Respects others’ time by communicating delays and being punctual.
• Supports team decisions even when differing from personal viewpoints.
• Assists in the integration of new coworkers and their role understanding.
• Identifies opportunities for effective coworker collaboration.
• Promotes unity around shared goals.
• Considers multiple viewpoints when evaluating alternatives.
• Facilitates cooperation across departments and organizational boundaries.
• Aids in orienting newcomers to workplace norms and policies.
• Takes initiative to maintain positive working relationships.
• Shows active interest in coworkers’ work and offers assistance.
• Expresses appreciation for contributions to team success.
• Maintains an open mind and reevaluates assumptions.
• Acknowledges personal limitations and involves others as needed.
• Prioritizes team needs over personal preferences.
• Shares credit and deflects praise onto coworkers.
• Makes an effort to connect with coworkers beyond work responsibilities.
• Advocates for the team’s interests when interacting with other groups.
• Helps foster an environment conducive to cooperation and mutual support.
• Brings out the best in coworkers through respect, support, and positivity.
• Integrates cooperation and collaboration into regular work approach.

Below Expectations

• Demonstrates unwillingness to collaborate and prefers solitary work.
• Unwilling to assist coworkers, even upon request.
• Professional in work but hesitant to offer advice to others.
• Demonstrates reluctance to work with others.
• Least likely to offer assistance when needed.
• Adapts to new tasks effectively but fails to communicate with and train others.
• Withholds information and resources rather than sharing.
• Dismisses others’ viewpoints without consideration.
• Takes credit for joint work without acknowledging contributions.
• Tends to argue rather than seek consensus.
• Fails to make an effort to understand perspectives different from own.
• Shows favoritism towards certain coworkers.
• Keeps teammates uninformed about progress and plans.
• Unwilling to compromise on issues important to others.
• Misses deadlines without communicating delays appropriately.
• Undermines group decisions that don’t align with preferences.
• Fails to help new coworkers or ensure they understand their roles.
• Fails to identify ways for coworkers to work together effectively.
• Allows disagreements to divide the team rather than unite them.
• Considers only personal perspective rather than multiple viewpoints.
• Fails to facilitate cooperation between departments.
• Fails to help orient newcomers or introduce workplace standards.
• Does little to build positive relationships with coworkers.
• Uninterested in others’ work and does not offer assistance.
• Fails to acknowledge others’ contributions to success.
• Closedminded and does not rethink assumptions.
• Takes on too much personally rather than involving others.
• Prioritizes selfinterests over team needs.
• Takes credit for self and does not recognize others.
• Detached from coworkers outside of work responsibilities.
• Does not represent team interests to other groups.
• Fosters an individualistic rather than cooperative culture.
• Fails to bring out the best in coworkers.
• Cooperation is not a regular part of work approach.

Performance review teamwork phrases

During a performance review cooperation and teamwork are among the most important qualities that need to be evaluated. Check out these performance review comments on teamwork and choose the ones to ask employees during your next evaluation period.

Performance review phrases for teamwork

Meets expectations

• Shows a high level of team spirit, readily cooperating with team members to get the job done.
• Respects every team member.
• Works well with others.
• Always helps out to achieve the goals of the group.
• Has a great willingness to help fellow teammates.
• Is a good team member, very cooperative and helpful in times of need.
• Actively participates in team discussions and shares workload.
• Respects different opinions and encourages open dialogue.
• Maintains harmonious relationships and resolves conflicts constructively.
• Acknowledges contributions of others and praises the success of teammates.
• Shares knowledge and resources willingly to help teammates succeed.
• Maintains transparency and keeps teammates informed of progress and issues.
• Respects deadlines of other departments and coordinates effectively.
• Respects commitments to teammates and delivers on assigned responsibilities.
• Maintains a collaborative approach and shares credit for team achievements.
• Seeks feedback to improve and respects feedback from other team members.
• Motivates teammates during difficult periods and boosts team morale.
• Respects team norms and establishes a cooperative working environment.
• Values different skills and backgrounds that teammates bring to projects.
• Is flexible and willing to take on additional responsibilities as required.
• Respects team boundaries and does not overstep limits of other roles.
• Is respectful towards teammates and uses polite, considerate language.
• Supports team decisions respectfully.

Below expectations

• Does not have a good relationship with team members and sometimes refuses to accept their opinion.
• Is not consistent in supporting teammates.
• Does not understand how to share tasks with others.
• Is more suitable to an individual-focused environment than a group-work environment.
• Does not know how to cooperate with colleagues in the team to achieve targets.
• Is reluctant to share work and seeks individual recognition over team achievements.
• Argues with teammates and does not respect different opinions and views.
• Fails to keep teammates informed of progress and roadblocks in a timely manner.
• Takes credit for team successes but blames others for failures or mistakes.
• Lacks flexibility and is unwilling to help teammates facing workload issues.
• Plays politics within the team and fails to establish trust and cooperation.
• Does not respect team norms and creates disruptions through unprofessional conduct.
• Fails to value different skills and backgrounds of teammates.
• Does not acknowledge efforts of others and is reluctant to praise teammates.
• Argues with feedback and disrespects suggestions from other team members.
• Discusses team matters outside inappropriately and damages confidentiality.
• Lacks commitment to team goals and allows personal needs to hamper collaboration.
• Is inflexible and unwilling to take on additional responsibilities as required.
• Fails to establish rapport with teammates and comes across as arrogant.
• Lacks initiative in resolving conflicts constructively and damages team harmony.

Performance review phrases professionalism

Professionalism isn’t just a quality; it’s also an attitude. A professional attitude can make working together much easier. Because of this, professionalism may also be evaluated during a review. In addition to phrases to evaluate professionalism in the workplace, this list also contains commitment performance review phrases.

Meets or exceeds expectations

• Demonstrates self-motivation and strives to complete all tasks on time.
• Exhibits perfectionism, persisting until achieving excellent results.
• Displays significant interest in the job, constantly generating new ideas.
• Possesses a high level of professional knowledge in the field.
• Takes initiative and continuously seeks ways to improve work.
• Maintains a positive attitude even during challenging times.
• Takes pride in work and aims for high-quality outcomes.
• Stays updated with ongoing learning in the field.
• Approaches problems with care, diligence, and a solutions-oriented mindset.
• Consistently delivers work exceeding role expectations.
• Demonstrates passion for the profession and enthusiasm for work.
• Represents the organization professionally in all interactions.
• Pays meticulous attention to detail and rectifies errors.
• Assumes responsibility for work and refrains from making excuses.
• Manages time effectively to meet all deadlines.
• Proactively seeks to improve processes and find efficiencies.
• Maintains professional composure under pressure.
• Dedicates efforts to serving organizational goals and priorities.
• Exhibits high organization, ensuring well-documented work.
• Proactively anticipates problems and develops solutions.
• Takes on additional responsibilities voluntarily.
• Willing to work extra hours when needed to complete tasks.
• Maintains a high-quality portfolio of work achievements.
• Seeks feedback to enhance skills and performance.
• Sets an example of excellence motivating high performance.
• Demonstrates leadership and mentors less experienced colleagues.
• Displays full commitment to the organization’s success.
• Pursues continuous expansion of expertise in the field.
• Fails to fulfill required duties.
• Takes excessive breaks and shows reluctance in duties.
• Often attempts to leave the workplace early.
• Shows little genuine interest in the job.
• Punctuality and appearance are lacking.
• Misses deadlines and avoids responsibility.
• Produces sloppy work not meeting quality standards.
• Makes excuses for errors or problems.
• Resists feedback and lacks initiative.
• Knowledge in the field is outdated or insufficient.
• Represents the organization unprofessionally.
• Fails to anticipate issues, leaving problems for others.
• Avoids extra responsibilities and passes work to others.
• Unwilling to work additional hours when necessary.
• Ineffective in documenting or organizing work.
• Demonstrates lack of dedication to organizational goals.
• Disorganized, losing or misfiling important documents.
• Displays a negative attitude impacting others.
• Lacks punctuality, missing meetings or appointments.
• Portfolio lacks substance and accomplishments.
• Closed to feedback and unwilling to improve.
• Shows lack of passion for the profession or field.
• Fails to set a positive example for others.

Performance review phrases attendance

Recognizing employees for their punctuality and consistent attendance is crucial. Positive phrases may include highlighting their on-time arrivals, reliability in meeting deadlines, and adherence to company policies. This acknowledgment fosters a culture of reliability and contributes to a smooth workflow.

Attendance and punctuality performance review sample

Here’s a sample performance review comment addressing attendance and punctuality:

“Jane consistently maintains excellent attendance and punctuality, setting a reliable example for the team. Her consistent presence ensures that team meetings start promptly and deadlines are met without delay. Jane’s dedication to punctuality greatly contributes to the smooth operation of our department.”

Employee performance review phrases attendance

• Performance is always reliable, following the work schedule well.
• Manages the schedule efficiently, fully completing all assigned tasks for the week.
• Sets a standard with perfect attendance.
• Exemplifies an ideal employee, arriving and leaving on time, and taking breaks as scheduled.
• Arrives fully prepared to tackle responsibilities every day.
• Demonstrates reliability with no attendance concerns.
• Punctual for work and meetings.
• Always arrives prepared for work.
• Notifies managers well in advance of planned time off.
• Makes arrangements for coverage during absences.
• Present and engaged during scheduled working hours.
• Arrives early to prepare and stays late to complete work.
• Adheres strictly to scheduled start and end times daily.
• Always ready to start work promptly.
• Schedules personal appointments outside working hours.
• Coordinates schedules with coworkers to avoid disruptions.
• Exemplifies attendance standards.
• Ensures task coverage during absences with contingency plans.
• Always on time for shifts, meetings, and deadlines.
• Impeccable attendance and punctuality year after year.
• Committed to being present and productive during work hours.
• Optimizes schedule for productivity and availability.
• Takes initiative to swap shifts as needed.
• Reliable in unpredictable or emergency situations.
• Attendance sets a motivating standard.
• Communicates availability and schedule clearly.
• Exemplary attendance record with no issues.
• Demonstrates inconsistent attitude negatively affecting the team.
• Follows appropriate schedule but often returns late from off-site activities, impacting coworkers.
• Fails to meet punctuality standards.
• Does not respond to communications promptly.
• Frequently late for work, not adhering to attendance policy.
• Takes unapproved time off or exceeds allotted leave.
• Frequent absences or lateness without advance notice.
• Leaves early or takes extended breaks without permission.
• Unpredictable schedule disrupts coworkers’ work.
• Fails to make arrangements during absences, causing workload pile-up.
• Misses deadlines and appointments due to poor time management.
• Regularly late to meetings and appointments.
• Tardiness and absenteeism set negative example.
• Frequently unavailable during scheduled hours.
• Takes unscheduled days off with short notice.
• Requires excessive supervision and follow-up due to inconsistent schedule.
• Fails to adhere to attendance and punctuality policies.
• Unpredictable whereabouts and availability.
• Inconsistent response to communications.
• Inconsistent schedule disrupts operations.
• Attendance record shows repeated issues.

Performance review comments quality of work

Providing employees with feedback about productivity and quality of work is essential for their professional growth and contribution to organizational goals. By using performance review phrases tailored to productivity and quality of work, managers can offer specific guidance and set clear expectations, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and excellence in the workplace.

Productivity and quality of work performance review examples

• Detail-oriented approach ensures consistently high-quality work.
• Maintains a high level of accuracy consistently.
• Upholds a good standard of productive work.
• Takes on new responsibilities independently.
• Demonstrates a strong grasp of job responsibilities.
• Ensures accuracy in all tasks.
• Attends to every detail in assigned tasks.
• Valued for high-quality, accurate performance.
• Developed [program/initiative] yielding [x] results.
• Improved output/production by [x]%.
• Surpassed start of year goals by [number].
• Delivers consistent, reliable results for clients/customers.
• Completes tasks efficiently well before deadlines.
• Initiates process improvements for increased efficiency.
• Minimizes rework or corrections in work.
• Sets a high standard with work performance.
• Maintains meticulous records and documentation.
• Finds innovative solutions to complex problems.
• Work product exceeds role requirements.
• Completes extra tasks beyond normal duties.
• Receives consistent praise from customers/clients.
• Achieves results exceeding performance targets.
• Delivers work on time and within budget.
• Solutions are well-conceived and enduring.
• Rarely achieves monthly performance targets.
• Produces a higher defect rate compared to peers.
• Work does not meet required output standards.
• Demonstrates low knowledge of required work procedures.
• Reluctant to take on new responsibilities.
• Struggles to concentrate on work.
• Unaware of job requirements.
• Unreliable quality of work.
• Fails to check work thoroughly before submission.
• Unable to perform job without assistance.
• Lack of concentration leads to high error rate.
• Work doesn’t pass inspection by team members.
• Overlooks task details.
• Misses key task requirements.
• Fails to meet basic quality standards.
• Work requires excessive corrections.

Performance review phrases adaptability

Providing employees with feedback about adaptability is crucial because it helps them understand their strengths and areas for improvement in navigating changes and uncertainties within the workplace. By acknowledging adaptability through feedback, employees are encouraged to embrace new challenges, learn from experiences, and develop resilience, ultimately contributing to their professional growth and the overall success of the organization.

• Maintains a calm and composed demeanor under stressful situations.
• Acknowledges and recognizes proposals for change.
• Promptly tackles changes while completing assignments.
• Welcomes criticism to improve the business.
• Willing to explore more effective business methods.
• Adjusts approach when facing obstacles.
• Considers different perspectives before deciding on action.
• Incorporates feedback to improve work methods.
• Remains open-minded towards new ideas and suggestions.
• Readily accepts additional responsibilities when needed.
• Flexible enough to take on varied tasks.
• Adapts communication style to different personalities.
• Makes necessary adjustments to changing priorities.
• Alters approach based on unique situation demands.
• Tailors solutions according to target audience.
• Reworks procedures in response to shifting business needs.
• Modifies plans readily with new information.
• Fine-tunes methods to optimize performance.
• Varies problem-solving techniques for differing issues.
• Adjusts easily to new teams and working environments.
• Alters traditional methods for more effective options.
• Diversifies skill set through ongoing training.
• Reconsiders solutions in response to changing needs.
• Tweaks established processes with new developments.
• Modifies deadlines and timelines to accommodate changes.
• Reworks content for various presentation formats.
• Streamlines operations by refining ineffective practices.
• Upgrades skills continuously to stay ahead of changes.
• Slow to confront changes.
• Unwilling to accept even minor changes.
• Easily confused about “out of plan” changes.
• Unwilling to accept last-minute changes.
• Struggles adjusting to unexpected obstacles.
• Resists considering different viewpoints.
• Fails to incorporate constructive criticism.
• Dismisses new ideas without proper evaluation.
• Declines additional responsibilities outside scope.
• Struggles shifting between diverse tasks.
• Uses a rigid communication approach.
• Difficulty adjusting to shifting priorities.
• Applies a one-size-fits-all solution method.
• Struggles tailoring solutions for different audiences.
• Slow to modify procedures in response to changes.
• Fails to update plans with new information.
• Does not fine-tune methods for better performance.
• Uses a standardized problem-solving approach.
• Difficulties adjusting to new teams and environments.
• Clings to outdated methods despite better options.
• Fails to expand skillset through ongoing learning.
• Slow to reconsider solutions that no longer fit.
• Uses a one-size-fits-all communication style.
• Resists tweaking processes for new developments.
• Does not refine strategies in line with market changes.
• Teaches all learners uniformly regardless of needs.
• Inflexible about deadlines and timelines.
• Presents content in a rigid format.
• Clings to ineffective practices rather than streamline.
• Fails to upgrade skills to adapt to changes.

Performance review communication skills comments

Providing employees with feedback about communication is essential as it enhances teamwork, collaboration, and organizational effectiveness. Through performance review comments on communication and interpersonal skills, managers guide employees to understand how their communication impacts work relationships . By using performance appraisal communication skills examples and evaluation phrases, managers help employees improve their ability to convey ideas, resolve conflicts , and foster positive relationships.

Performance review phrases communication skills

• Communication skills, both verbal and written, are highly effective.
• Friendly communicator, building rapport with every division in the company.
• Positive attitude and willingness to listen are highly appreciated.
• Regularly gives constructive feedback.
• Makes new employees feel welcome.
• Provides accurate and timely information, both written and orally.
• Actively listens to others.
• Involves others in problem-solving.
• Provides clear instructions and expectations.
• Accepts criticism, is open to new ideas, and handles conflict constructively and diplomatically.
• Articulates ideas in a clear and organized manner.
• Communicates effectively with all levels of staff.
• Establishes rapport easily with both internal and external contacts.
• Shares credit and recognizes others’ contributions.
• Gives and receives feedback professionally and productively.
• Builds strong working relationships across departments.
• Expresses empathy when listening to others.
• Facilitates discussions to reach agreement.
• Communicates appropriately for each audience and situation.
• Addresses concerns respectfully and seeks mutually agreeable solutions.
• Presents information compellingly to different groups.
• Encourages open dialogue and the sharing of perspectives.
• Mediates disagreements constructively to find common ground.
• Maintains an approachable demeanor to foster collaboration.
• Keeps others informed proactively through regular updates.
• Clarifies expectations to ensure shared understanding.
• Negotiates diplomatically to reach mutually agreeable solutions.
• Fosters an environment of trust and respect among colleagues.
• Expresses disagreement respectfully and proposes alternative options.
• Welcomes diverse viewpoints and new ideas from all levels.
• Facilitates cooperation across teams to accomplish goals.
• Connects people to build new relationships and opportunities.
• Keeps an open door to address any staff concerns constructively.
• Makes others feel heard by paraphrasing their perspectives.
• Brings people together, finds common ground, and moves discussion forward productively.
• Acknowledges others effectively to build morale and engagement.
• Resolves interpersonal issues diplomatically to maintain cohesion.
• Keeps an even temper when under pressure or during disagreement.
• Fails to communicate with team members effectively.
• Must improve foreign language skills.
• Not adept at documenting verbal communication.
• Should work on this skill over the next 90 days.
• Should communicate project status updates more frequently.
• Seen as unapproachable by many coworkers.
• Needs to work on listening to others.
• Works well with own team but has an “us” against “them” mentality towards others within the company.
• Struggles articulating ideas clearly.
• Fails to communicate effectively across levels.
• Difficulty establishing rapport externally.
• Takes credit individually rather than recognizing others.
• Gives feedback in an unproductive manner.
• Lacks strong working relationships across departments.
• Does not show empathy when others speak.
• Does not facilitate discussions to reach agreement.
• Uses inappropriate communication style.
• Fails to address concerns respectfully to find solutions.
• Presents information poorly to different groups.
• Discourages open dialogue and sharing of perspectives.
• Handles disagreements in an unconstructive manner.
• Maintains an unapproachable demeanor.
• Fails to provide regular updates proactively.
• Lacks clarity on expectations.
• Negotiates in an adversarial rather than cooperative spirit.
• Fosters an environment lacking trust and respect.
• Expresses disagreement disrespectfully.
• Discourages diverse viewpoints and new ideas.
• Fails to facilitate cooperation across teams.
• Does not connect people to build opportunities.
• Inaccessible to address staff concerns.
• Does not acknowledge others’ perspectives.
• Moves discussions in an unproductive direction.
• Fails to acknowledge others effectively.
• Loses temper during disagreement or pressure.

Performance review phrases for innovation and creativity

Providing employees with feedback about innovation and creativity is crucial for fostering a culture of innovation within the organization. By acknowledging and encouraging innovative thinking through feedback, employees are motivated to generate new ideas, solve problems creatively, and drive positive change. This feedback helps employees understand the value of their innovative contributions and reinforces a culture that values creativity, ultimately leading to improved organizational performance.

Creativity performance review phrases

• Demonstrates the ability to develop creative solutions to solve problems.
• Thinks outside the box to find the best solutions to particular problems.
• Regularly contributes suggestions on how to improve company processes.
• Constantly searches for new ideas and ways to improve efficiency.
• Has launched creative initiatives such as [specific example].
• Creates breakthrough and helpful ideas in meetings.
• Trusted for a helpful and creative solution when facing difficulty.
• A creative individual who often finds effective solutions to problems.
• Develops innovative concepts for new products and services.
• Approaches challenges with an imaginative mindset.
• Generates fresh perspectives on existing problems.
• Encourages the team to think creatively and come up with innovative solutions.
• Fosters a culture of creativity and innovation within the team.
• Recognizes and rewards creative thinking and innovation within the team.
• Provides opportunities for the team to develop creativity and innovation skills.
• Collaborates with the team to generate new and innovative ideas.
• Willing to experiment with new approaches or ideas, enabling the team to innovate.
• Seeks out new and innovative solutions to problems.
• Receptive to feedback or suggestions from the team regarding creative solutions.
• Prioritizes creativity and innovation in the team’s goals and objectives.
• Invests in training or development programs to enhance the team’s creativity and innovation skills.
• Provides a safe and supportive environment for the team to take creative risks.
• Encourages the team to challenge the status quo and think outside the box.
• Recognizes and appreciates the value of creative thinking and innovation in achieving business goals.
• Proactive in seeking out new and innovative opportunities for the team.
• Provides the necessary autonomy and freedom for the team to explore creative solutions.
• Empowers the team to take ownership of their creativity and innovation efforts.
• Recognizes and addresses barriers that may hinder the team’s ability to be creative and innovative.
• Provides the necessary support and resources for the team to implement creative solutions.
• Fosters a culture of experimentation and learning from failure.
• Adapts to changing circumstances and finds creative solutions to new challenges.
• Consistently comes up with fresh and innovative ideas to improve business operations.
• Inspires the team to think creatively and embrace new ideas.
• Balances creativity with practicality to find effective solutions.
• Skilled at identifying opportunities for innovation and implementing them successfully.
• Encourages a collaborative approach to problem-solving, leading to creative solutions.
• Communicates complex ideas in a clear and creative manner.
• Passionate about exploring new ideas and finding innovative solutions to problems.
• Does not encourage the team to find creative solutions.
• Demonstrates a lack of interest in contributing creative or innovative ideas.
• Has a difficult time thinking “outside of the box” and creating new solutions.
• Tends to act before thinking, causing problems when pushing untested or unexamined ideas forward too quickly.
• Discourages creative solutions from the team.
• Rarely considers new and innovative ideas from the team.
• Shows little interest in exploring creative solutions to problems.
• Tends to stick to traditional methods instead of exploring new and innovative approaches.
• Not open to new ideas and tends to shut down creative suggestions from the team.
• Lacks the ability to think creatively and come up with innovative solutions.
• Does not value creativity and innovation in the team.
• Resistant to change and new ideas, limiting the team’s ability to innovate.
• Does not provide the necessary resources or support for the team to be creative and innovative.
• Does not foster a culture of creativity and innovation within the team.
• Not willing to take risks or try new things, hindering the team’s ability to innovate.
• Does not encourage the team to think creatively and come up with innovative solutions.
• Does not recognize or reward creative thinking and innovation within the team.
• Does not provide opportunities for the team to develop creativity and innovation skills.
• Does not collaborate with the team to generate new and innovative ideas.
• Not willing to experiment with new approaches or ideas, limiting the team’s ability to innovate.
• Does not seek out new and innovative solutions to problems.
• Not receptive to feedback or suggestions from the team regarding creative solutions.
• Does not prioritize creativity and innovation in the team’s goals and objectives.
• Does not invest in training or development programs to enhance the team’s creativity and innovation skills.
• Does not provide a safe and supportive environment for the team to take creative risks.
• Does not encourage the team to challenge the status quo and think outside the box.
• Does not recognize or appreciate the value of creative thinking and innovation in achieving business goals.
• Not proactive in seeking out new and innovative opportunities for the team.
• Does not provide the necessary autonomy and freedom for the team to explore creative solutions.
• Does not empower the team to take ownership of their creativity and innovation efforts.
• Does not recognize or address barriers that may hinder the team’s ability to be creative and innovative.
• Does not provide the necessary support and resources for the team to implement creative solutions.

Accountability performance review phrases

Providing employees with feedback on accountability encourages responsibility, trust, and high performance, contributing to your company’s success.

Performance review accountability

In performance reviews, accountability is crucial for assessing employees’ reliability and commitment to their roles . Feedback on accountability evaluates their ability to take ownership of their work, meet deadlines, and fulfill commitments. It reinforces the importance of responsibility and reliability while setting clear expectations for future performance. By recognizing instances of accountability and addressing areas for improvement, managers cultivate a culture of trust and integrity within the organization, ultimately leading to improved employee engagement and productivity.

• Demonstrates responsibility by assisting team mates with their tasks willingly.
• Takes full accountability for actions and never avoids responsibility.
• Assists coworkers promptly in response to workload changes.
• Offers assistance to others proactively.
• Volunteers assistance even when not expected.
• Displays empathy towards others’ needs.
• Strives to foster a positive work atmosphere.
• Shows awareness of external environmental needs.
• Efficiently utilizes time consistently.
• Welcomes feedback on work openly.
• Takes ownership of tasks from start to finish autonomously.
• Identifies when additional help is needed and finds solutions without compromising quality or deadlines.
• Acknowledges mistakes as opportunities for growth.
• Considers impacts of actions and decisions on others.
• Leads by example with a strong work ethic.
• Maintains integrity and earns trust through consistent demonstration of competence.
• Respects organizational hierarchy while contributing innovative ideas.
• Finds purpose in work beyond self-interest.
• Considers multiple perspectives and builds consensus before deciding on solutions.
• Gives credit to others and shares team accomplishments.
• Meets commitments reliably while adapting plans to new information.
• Maintains a positive, solution-oriented mindset under stress.
• Advocates for process improvements based on objective data.
• Builds cooperative relationships across departments to enhance coordination.
• Leads with compassion and mentorship.
• Remains solutions-focused under pressure.
• Admits gaps in knowledge and seeks guidance.
• Approaches conflicts with empathy, fairness, and good faith.
• Holds self to high standards with diligence.
• Focuses on completing tasks before moving to new priorities.
• Proactively leads and anticipates challenges.
• Sets vision and strategy while empowering others.
• Fosters a growth culture where all contribute.
• Maintains a learning mindset to optimize outcomes.
• Fosters collaboration for maximum impact.
• Frequently shifts responsibility onto others.
• Reluctant to acknowledge failures.
• Struggles with accepting responsibility.
• Often makes excuses for failure.
• Blames processes and policies for shortcomings.
• Resists feedback that challenges assumptions.
• Takes credit for team accomplishments while avoiding blame.
• Focuses on others’ mistakes rather than supporting improvement.
• Fails to follow through on commitments.
• Makes excuses for missed deadlines.
• Acts entitled and resistant to additional responsibilities.
• Avoids owning up to subpar work.
• Plays the blame game instead of resolving issues constructively.
• Lacks self-awareness and initiative.
• Needs constant supervision and prompting.
• Becomes defensive when standards are enforced.
• Acts entitled when asked to improve.
• Lacks ownership over projects.
• Misses obvious problems.
• Avoids difficult conversations and decisions.
• Fails to acknowledge missteps.
• Lacks attention to detail and quality.
• Acts entitled when given feedback.
• Lacks initiative and ownership.
• Plays the victim rather than taking responsibility.

Performance review customer focus

Providing employees with feedback about customer focus is crucial as it reinforces the importance of prioritizing customer needs and customer satisfaction . This feedback aligns employee behavior with organizational goals, empowers employees to understand the impact of their interactions on customer experiences, and improves customer retention and business outcomes.

Performance review phrases for customer focus

• Demonstrates skill in finding the right approach with any client, even the most critical.
• Maintains politeness and friendliness with customers, avoiding interruptions during conversations.
• Commits to fulfilling promises made to clients without fail.
• Prioritizes the comfort and convenience of clients.
• Goes above and beyond job requirements consistently to satisfy customers.
• Exhibits proficiency in working with clients, receiving no complaints from them.
• Handles difficult customers gracefully.
• Achieves consistently high marks on customer satisfaction surveys.
• Provides consistent, quality service to all customers.
• Follows up with customers promptly.
• Ensures customers are accurately informed, making an extra effort to do so.
• Actively listens to customers, seeking to understand their needs and preferences.
• Responds to customer inquiries promptly and professionally.
• Takes ownership of customer issues and diligently works to resolve them.
• Anticipates customer needs and offers proactive solutions.
• Demonstrates empathy and understanding when customers express frustration.
• Maintains a positive attitude even when dealing with challenging customers.
• Takes responsibility for customer outcomes and aims to exceed expectations.
• Builds rapport and trust with customers through consistent high-quality service.
• Demonstrates flexibility and adaptability to changing customer needs.
• Possesses a deep understanding of the products or services provided to customers.
• Seeks feedback from customers to improve service and product offerings.
• Maintains accurate and up-to-date records of customer interactions and needs.
• Responds to customer complaints urgently and resolves them quickly.
• Proactively identifies and addresses potential customer issues.
• Exhibits patience and persistence in resolving complex customer issues.
• Stays informed about competitors and industry trends to better serve customers.
• Can handle everyday customer service situations but lacks flexibility and knowledge in complex issues.
• Needs to reduce average time per call, especially when it is high.
• Handles phone customer service well but struggles with face-to-face interactions.
• Receives consistently low marks in customer satisfaction surveys.
• Needs improvement in active listening skills.
• Attendance and participation in customer service training sessions are lacking.
• Frequently passes challenging issues to others instead of addressing them personally.
• Demonstrates frustration with clients who ask questions.
• Struggles with difficult customers, often deferring to a supervisor.
• Lacks initiative in finding solutions to challenging customer issues.
• Displays impatience or irritation with customers who have complex needs.
• Fails to take ownership of customer issues and often passes them to others.
• Lacks timely and effective follow-up with customers.
• Shows a lack of empathy and understanding with dissatisfied customers.
• Communicates poorly with customers, leading to misunderstandings.
• Does not take responsibility for customer outcomes and tends to blame external factors.
• Provides inconsistent service quality to customers.
• Fails to anticipate customer needs or proactively offer solutions.
• Does not seek or utilize customer feedback for improvement.
• Neglects to maintain accurate records of customer interactions.
• Responds slowly to customer complaints and does not resolve them promptly.
• Lacks patience and persistence in resolving complex customer issues.
• Lacks understanding of products or services offered to customers.
• Fails to adapt to changing customer needs.
• Does not maintain professionalism in high-pressure situations.
• Lacks understanding of the importance of customer service.
• Fails to proactively address potential customer issues.
• Does not take customer feedback seriously or use it for improvement.
• Fails to fulfill commitments made to customers, leading to dissatisfaction.
• Shows reluctance to learn and improve in customer service skills.

Performance review phrases decision making

Providing employees with feedback about problem-solving and decision-making skills is essential for fostering innovation and efficiency. By acknowledging strengths and addressing areas for improvement, feedback empowers employees to develop critical thinking and sound judgment, leading to better problem resolution and increased productivity. Use these performance review phrases tailored to decision-making and problem-solving to provide employees with specific and actionable feedback .

Performance review phrases problem solving

• Skillful at analyzing situations and working out solutions.
• Clearly defines problems and seeks alternative solutions.
• Demonstrates decisiveness in difficult situations.
• Makes sound, fact-based judgments.
• Carefully analyzes issues and explores different resolutions.
• Demonstrates creativity and innovation in problem-solving.
• Prioritizes competing demands and makes tough decisions.
• Displays good judgment and critical thinking skills.
• Identifies root causes of problems and addresses them effectively.
• Considers all factors before determining the best course of action.
• Thinks through potential consequences before finalizing plans.
• Objectively weighs pros and cons to arrive at well-reasoned conclusions.
• Solicits input from others to gain diverse perspectives.
• Maintains composure under pressure and makes level-headed choices.
• Approaches issues with an open mind to find optimal solutions.
• Thinks creatively to tackle challenging problems.
• Learns from past experiences to improve decision making.
• Breaks large problems down into manageable pieces.
• Balances the bigger picture with important details.
• Gathers relevant facts from reliable sources.
• Adapts decisions based on new information.
• Finds practical solutions within constraints.
• Evaluates outcomes and adjusts as needed.
• Foresees potential obstacles or consequences.
• Balances risks and potential benefits in decision making.
• Draws logical conclusions based on evidence.
• Considers diverse viewpoints to develop plans.
• Prioritizes and tackles important issues first.
• Remains open to new information and perspectives.
• Re-evaluates solutions against goals and refines as needed.
• Anticipates second and third order effects of choices.
• Applies overly complex approaches to problem-solving.
• Struggles with difficult problems.
• Avoids awkward situations.
• Loses focus when faced with complexity.
• Makes hasty decisions without considering factors.
• Fails to acknowledge flaws in reasoning.
• Makes inconsistent decisions without rationale.
• Does not re-evaluate choices when needed.
• Fails to consider implications of decisions.
• Does not gather sufficient information.
• Allows emotions to cloud judgment.
• Rejects contradictory input.
• Becomes flustered under pressure.
• Approaches issues with closed mind.
• Focuses on single solutions.
• Fails to see broader implications.
• Does not learn from past errors.
• Makes excuses for unsuccessful solutions.
• Avoids responsibility for consequences.
• Jumps to conclusions without facts.
• Struggles to break problems down.
• Loses sight of overarching goals.
• Relies on anecdotes over data.
• Fails to re-examine assumptions.
• Does not establish evaluation criteria.
• Ignores potential challenges.
• Struggles to prioritize effectively.
• Fails to adapt to changing circumstances.
• Proposes unrealistic solutions.
• Rushes through decisions without analysis.

Performance review phrases for dependability

Providing employees with feedback about dependability is crucial for maintaining trust and efficiency within the organization. It reinforces the importance of reliability and meeting deadlines , helping employees understand how their performance impacts team dynamics and productivity. By addressing areas needing improvement, feedback empowers employees to enhance their dependability and contribute more effectively to organizational success, fostering a culture of accountability and reliability.

Performance review phrases reliability

• Willing to work overtime until the project is finished.
• The go-to person if the task absolutely must be completed by a given time.
• Dependable and turns in good performance each day. Never fails to impress.
• Shows faithful commitment to getting the job done, consistently performing at or above expectations.
• Known for dependability and willingness to do what it takes.
• Can be counted upon for steady performance.
• Consistently demonstrates solid performance in all aspects of work.
• Handles projects conscientiously from start to finish.
• Meets deadlines reliably and completes work within expected timeframes.
• Follows through consistently and honors commitments.
• Accepts responsibility for tasks and sees them through to completion.
• Maintains a consistent level of quality and effort in all duties.
• Work is thoroughly done right the first time with few errors.
• Can be counted on to handle important tasks independently.
• Punctual and dependable in attendance and timekeeping.
• Keeps others informed of progress and potential delays.
• Maintains focus and follows through to the end of projects.
• Colleagues trust that work assigned will be done reliably.
• Accountable and takes ownership of responsibilities.
• Performance level remains consistent even under pressure.
• Maintains composure and continues working steadily.
• Proactive in preventing delays or issues with deadlines.
• Work habits demonstrate discipline and dependability.
• A rock others can lean on in times of heavy workload.
• Performance level is unwavering despite distractions.
• Delivers on commitments with consistent effort and quality.
• Cannot depend on him. Better to assign tasks to someone else.
• Productivity is not as good as coworkers’.
• Very loyal but cannot be depended on. An irresponsible person.
• Demands reliability from others, but not from himself.
• Energy, drive, and performance levels are inconsistent and unpredictable.
• Makes promises that aren’t kept.
• Guarantees deadlines will be met, but consistently misses them.
• Reliable when it suits him, constantly needs reminders for disliked tasks.
• Work quality and effort levels vary unpredictably.
• Does not demonstrate consistent ownership of responsibilities.
• Makes excuses when failing to follow through on commitments.
• Others cannot rely on him to manage important duties independently.
• Work is error-prone, quality is not maintained.
• Easily distracted or sidetracked from tasks.
• Productivity decreases significantly under normal pressure.
• Unreliable and inconsistent in following instructions.
• Does not take initiative or demonstrate accountability.
• Struggles to multi-task or manage deadlines effectively.
• Colleagues cannot depend on tasks being done right the first time.
• Becomes overwhelmed and makes poor choices when busy.
• Struggles to maintain focus and follow projects through.
• Misses important details and fails to deliver quality work.
• Does not keep others informed of progress or delays.
• Work cannot be depended on to meet professional standards.
• Easily distracted by unrelated tasks or personal matters.

Performance review phrases integrity

Providing employees with feedback about integrity is crucial for upholding trust and ethical standards within the organization. It reinforces the importance of honesty, transparency, and adherence to organizational values, helping employees understand the impact of their actions on the workplace culture and reputation. Addressing any integrity concerns empowers employees to uphold ethical standards and contribute to a positive work environment, fostering honesty and trustworthiness throughout the organization.

Performance appraisal phrases for integrity

• Very honest, never abusing company benefits for personal purposes.
• Highly principled, treating all coworkers equally, regardless of gender, age, or any other factor.
• Has the ability to resolve disputes with clients and partners peacefully.
• Discourages gossip or other negative discourse at the workplace, forming a good working climate.
• Understands legal responsibility to the company very well.
• Strong sense of integrity underlies all dealings with vendors.
• Makes decisions that consistently reflect a strong commitment to acting reputably.
• Never shares confidential company information with outsiders without proper authorization.
• Reports any violations of company policies or code of conduct witnessed.
• Handles all customer complaints with empathy, respect, and care.
• Takes responsibility for own mistakes and learns from them.
• Gives credit to colleagues for their contributions and does not take sole credit for teamwork.
• Leads by example with high ethical standards in all dealings.
• Honest and transparent in all communication with management and peers.
• Handles conflicts of interest appropriately and does not let personal interests influence professional decisions.
• Respects privacy and protects sensitive information of customers, partners, and the company.
• Makes well-considered decisions keeping long-term interests of stakeholders in mind.
• Takes a principled stand against unfair treatment or discrimination.
• Acts with utmost integrity in all internal and external interactions.
• Takes responsibility for ensuring team follows the company code of conduct.
• Leads by setting an example of high ethical values in day-to-day work.
• Honest and transparent in documenting work progress and results.
• Takes initiative to clarify and understand expectations to avoid misunderstandings.
• Respects and complies with all applicable laws and regulations.
• Handles sensitive information with discretion and does not misuse authority or access.
• Truthful and factual in preparing any documents and records.
• Leads by personal example of ethical and lawful conduct.
• Occasionally made misleading statements that needed correction.
• Accusations from customers of being untruthful.
• Integrity does not seem to rank particularly highly on priorities.
• Expects integrity from others, but doesn’t always display it himself.
• Demonstrates acceptable levels of integrity only intermittently.
• Showed several recent lapses in integrity.
• Violates company standards and expectations regarding employee integrity.
• Cost the company customers and money because of disingenuous behavior.
• Integrity seems flexible when it suits purposes.
• Lack of integrity undermines effectiveness and damages credibility.

Performance review phrases flexibility

Feedback on flexibility in performance reviews is important as it encourages employees to adapt to change and new ideas. It helps create a culture of innovation and agility in the organization. Ultimately, addressing flexibility promotes individual growth and organizational success.

• Ready to make new and carefully considered decisions if the situation has changed and the previous actions have become inappropriate.
• Ready to work extra hours if urgent and essential issues must be solved by the end of the day.
• Strong and confident but at the same time open-minded. Always ready to consider proposals from colleagues.
• Always stays aware of market changes to be able to react immediately. This awareness helps the company develop and flourish.
• Shows initiative and is flexible when approaching new tasks.
• Ready to consider new perspectives and adjust views if compelling counterarguments are presented.
• Willing to take on additional responsibilities outside normal role when the team needs support.
• Adapts smoothly to changing priorities and demands without becoming frustrated or overwhelmed.
• Remains open to alternative solutions even after committing to a particular course of action.
• Embraces diverse viewpoints and values the unique perspectives of all team members.
• Receptive to feedback and uses it constructively to strengthen performance.
• Transitions between tasks seamlessly thanks to ability to stay focused yet flexible.
• Brings a versatile skill set to each new challenge and finds innovative ways to add value.
• Tailors approach based on the unique needs of diverse clients and stakeholders.
• Readily takes on different roles to ensure all work gets done to a high standard.
• Handles unforeseen complications calmly and creatively without compromising quality or deadlines.
• Maintains a high level of performance despite unpredictable demands and shifting company priorities.
• Embraces change proactively and sees it as an opportunity rather than a disruption.
• Finds the upside in difficulties and uses challenges to strengthen adaptability.
• Approaches each new task with an open and inquisitive mindset rather than rigid preconceptions.
• Does not excel at activities which require a high degree of flexibility.
• Can change point of view without analyzing or defending it. Should be more certain about proposals.
• Tends to resist activities where the path is unknown.
• Becomes uptight when the plan changes.
• Not comfortable when the agenda changes unexpectedly.
• Prefers sticking to a set routine and gets uneasy with unexpected deviations.
• Adapting to new situations does not come naturally and would benefit from being more open to change.
• Gets stuck in rigid thinking and has difficulty considering alternative perspectives.
• Shows reluctance to adjust approach even when presented with a better option.
• New information that contradicts preconceptions can make defensive rather than open-minded.
• Last-minute changes can frustrate as likes advance preparation and scheduling.
• Tendency to get stuck in rigid ways of thinking instead of considering different perspectives.
• Adjusting to alternative solutions requires more effort than sticking to original idea.
• Shows reluctance to modify strategies even when circumstances change.
• Openness to alternate viewpoints is an area that can further develop for improved flexibility.
• Demonstrates rigidity in thinking patterns and could benefit from strengthening adaptability skills.
• Going outside prescribed processes to get work done can be challenging.

Performance review for leadership

Providing employees with feedback about leadership skills during performance reviews is essential for their career growth and the organization’s success. This feedback helps employees understand their strengths and areas for improvement in leading teams and projects, aligning their behavior with organizational goals and values. By addressing any gaps in leadership capabilities, feedback empowers employees to enhance their skills and positively impact team performance, fostering a culture of effective leadership within the organization .

• Distributes resources in an appropriate manner depending on the priority of assignments.
• Establishes a corporate culture of reliability and caring.
• Is ready to share information and knowledge for the common development of all staff.
• Is very helpful when mentoring entry-level staff getting used to their jobs.
• Creates a culture of dialogue.
• Recognizes staff for a job well done.
• Allocates tasks appropriately based on the prior assignments.
• Understands people and the different ways to motivate them to get the job done.
• Provides constant coaching and guidance to employees.
• Cultivates an atmosphere of teamwork and cooperation.
• Leads by example with integrity and strong work ethic.
• Empowers staff to take initiative within clear guidelines.
• Encourages open communication up and down the chain.
• Provides regular constructive feedback and coaching.
• Celebrates both individual and team achievements.
• Makes oneself available as needed for guidance.
• Helps staff set and pursue career development goals.
• Delegates appropriately based on competencies.
• Gives credit to staff for accomplishments.
• Removes obstacles to allow staff to excel.
• Provides stretch assignments for growth opportunities.
• Leads with a vision that inspires commitment.
• Empowers staff to find innovative solutions.
• Cultivates an inclusive environment of respect.
• Confuses the employees through different directions and guidance.
• Rarely shows appreciation for good performance.
• Fails to explain procedures to subordinates clearly. Lacks the qualifications to be an effective mentor.
• Gets frustrated easily with new team members and fails to offer any support.
• Often impatient and unhelpful.
• Sends mixed signals to the team regarding goals and day-to-day activities.
• Rarely shows any recognition to the team.
• Sets unreasonably high expectations for the team.
• Provides inconsistent direction without clarity.
• Does not recognize contributions publicly.
• Lacks patience when explaining procedures.
• Appears unsupportive of new staff questions.
• Shows irritation easily instead of calm guidance.
• Sends conflicting cues about priorities.
• Sets unrealistic targets without resources.
• Does not cultivate an atmosphere of trust.
• Delegates poorly without clarity on expectations.
• Does not connect staff to learning opportunities.
• Lacks vision and fails to inspire commitment.
• Plays favorites within the team.
• Shows lack of interest in staff development.
• Fails to build an inclusive work culture.
• Lacks integrity and consistency in leadership.
• Is unavailable and unapproachable as needed.

Performance review comments initiative

Providing feedback on initiative during performance reviews is important because it encourages employees to take action and contribute ideas. It helps create a culture where employees feel empowered to drive progress and innovation . Ultimately, addressing initiative promotes success for both individuals and the organization.

• Doesn’t wait for instructions, shows initiative to find new tasks.
• Requires minimal supervision, shows initiative independently.
• Goal-oriented, sets own priorities to accomplish job.
• Takes initiative in overcoming obstacles and finding resolutions.
• Considered best person in group for innovative ideas and effective working methods.
• Never minds taking on new tasks, even the most difficult ones.
• Consistently looks for ways to add more value through continuous improvement.
• Willingly takes on additional responsibilities outside core job scope.
• Proactively seeks out new challenges and stretches continuously.
• Takes ownership and drives tasks from start to finish without needing oversight.
• Solves problems independently before escalating issues.
• Identifies needs and opportunities others may miss and acts quickly.
• Leads by example, inspires others through high levels of self-motivation.
• Identifies and implements efficiencies to optimize performance.
• Initiates collaborative relationships for mutual benefit.
• Takes on additional work during peak periods without needing to be asked.
• Approaches challenges with a can-do attitude, finds solutions independently.
• Identifies and acts on opportunities for organizational improvement.
• Proactively manages workload and workstreams with little supervision.
• Implements best practices to continuously raise performance.
• Takes ownership of projects, driving them proactively.
• Applies skills to new areas for organization’s benefit.
• Builds strong internal and external working relationships proactively.
• Contributes innovative ideas at team meetings and discussions.
• Takes on stretch assignments eagerly to accelerate learning and growth.
• Drives continuous improvement initiatives independently.
• Implements new processes or systems for enhanced effectiveness.
• Pitches in to help others complete their work as needed.
• Takes actions independently to advance organizational priorities and strategy.
• Seems too difficult for him to do job on his own.
• Poor abilities to establish priorities and courses of action for self, lacks planning and follow-up skills to achieve results.
• Needs close supervision when performing assignments.
• Doesn’t seek out opportunities to learn and grow within role.
• Passively waits to be told what to do rather than driving tasks proactively.
• Lacks motivation, relies heavily on external direction.
• Fails to identify needs and opportunities for improvement.
• Does not look for ways to add more value or take on additional responsibilities.
• Avoids or is slow to take on new challenges and stretch assignments.
• Escalates issues prematurely rather than solving problems independently.
• Struggles to work independently, not self-starting.
• Lacks proactive, solution-oriented approach to tasks and challenges.
• Fails to identify opportunities for process improvements.
• Relies on others to identify additional work needed during peaks.
• Lacks can-do attitude, depends on others to solve problems.
• Ineffective at independent time management and workload prioritization.
• Does not initiate implementation of industry best practices.
• Lacks ownership over projects, depends on significant oversight.
• Rarely contributes innovative ideas or suggestions proactively.

Employee performance review comments job knowledge

Giving employees feedback about job knowledge during performance reviews is essential to ensure they have the skills needed for their roles . It reinforces the importance of continuous learning and staying updated on industry trends. Addressing job knowledge promotes competence, growth, and excellence within the organization.

Performance review job knowledge phrases

• Possesses perfect knowledge and skills useful for the job.
• Has deep knowledge of products and particular characteristics of company’s products.
• Takes available opportunities to increase knowledge of relevant job skills.
• Completes assignments accurately and efficiently.
• Maintains up-to-date level of professional and technical knowledge.
• Demonstrates knowledge of job on a daily basis.
• Always applies new knowledge to work and keeps up with changes in field.
• Has excellent grasp of technical aspects of role.
• Seeks out opportunities for continuous learning and skills development.
• Demonstrates expertise when answering questions from others.
• Applies specialized skills and knowledge effectively to all tasks.
• Troubleshoots issues efficiently using in-depth product understanding.
• Keeps well-informed of best practices and emerging standards.
• Delivers work to expert level through extensive learning.
• Takes advantage of all training opportunities provided.
• Shares knowledge and expertise willingly with others.
• Learns quickly and applies new skills independently.
• Stays well-informed on industry news and competitor offerings.
• Contributes insights based on in-depth knowledge and research.
• Provides expert guidance to others regularly.
• Enhances knowledge continuously through self-study.
• Makes complex topics easily understood for others.
• Recommends process improvements based on leading practices.
• Mentors less experienced team members effectively.
• Incorporates feedback to enhance skills and performance.
• Cannot fulfill duties due to lack of necessary knowledge of job.
• Not as knowledgeable about job and its requirements as expected.
• Doesn’t know key fundamentals of job, always asks for other people’s instruction.
• Repeatedly asks same questions about job duties, does not retain important information.
• Skill set does not meet requirements for job.
• Not taking advantage of available learning resources to expand job knowledge.
• Relies too heavily on others rather than developing greater self-sufficiency.
• Learning plan needed to strengthen job knowledge and skills.
• Consistently demonstrates lack of understanding of job requirements and expectations.
• Job knowledge falls short of what is necessary to perform duties effectively.
• Frequently makes mistakes due to inadequate knowledge of job.
• Struggles to keep up with demands of job due to limited understanding of its complexities.
• Has not demonstrated necessary proficiency in job duties despite attempts to improve performance.
• Has not shown significant improvement in job knowledge since hire date.
• Frequently requires assistance from colleagues to complete tasks within job knowledge.
• Appears to have limited understanding of company’s policies and procedures.
• Has not demonstrated ability to apply job knowledge to real-world situations.
• Lacks necessary training and experience to perform job duties effectively.
• Has not demonstrated understanding of importance of job duties to company’s success.
• Consistently fails to meet expectations set for job performance.
• Struggles to keep up with changes in industry due to limited job knowledge.
• Has not shown initiative to improve job knowledge or seek additional training.

Planning and organizing performance review phrases

Giving feedback on planning and organizing during performance reviews helps employees work more efficiently . It reminds them to set goals, prioritize tasks , and manage time effectively. Improving these skills leads to better results for the organization.

Meets or exceed expectations

• Demonstrates good organizational and planning skills.
• Adheres to deadlines and meets production benchmarks.
• Prioritizes tasks effectively based on importance and urgency.
• Allocates sufficient time and resources to complete projects according to deadlines.
• Schedules work systematically and maintains detailed work plans.
• Anticipates risks and roadblocks in advance to plan contingencies.
• Delegates tasks based on skills and workload of team members.
• Monitors progress regularly and makes adjustments to plans proactively.
• Maintains organized documentation, records, and reports on ongoing work.
• Schedules important meetings to ensure timely coordination and progress.
• Plans budgets effectively and completes projects within allocated cost estimates.
• Manages time efficiently and completes tasks as scheduled without delays.
• Establishes standard operating procedures for efficient task completion.
• Plans for potential emergencies and contingencies in advance.
• Schedules work in a manner that prioritizes quality over quantity.
• Ensures proper coordination between different teams and departments.
• Maintains a calendar of important dates and deadlines to track progress.
• Schedules work in a manner that balances multiple ongoing projects.
• Plans and schedules work to achieve objectives within given timeframes.
• Prioritizes new tasks based on strategic organizational goals and objectives.
• Schedules tasks for optimum resource utilization and efficiency.
• Finds it difficult to plan an action without instruction.
• Fails to resolve problems in a timely manner.
• Finds it challenging to determine priorities among competing demands on time.
• Has trouble planning work schedule around deadlines and commitments.
• Requires frequent supervision to stay on track and complete tasks.
• Gets easily distracted and has difficulties managing interruptions.
• Fails to anticipate resource requirements and bottlenecks in advance.
• Struggles to adapt plans when priorities change or issues arise.
• Finds it hard to delegate tasks and monitor progress independently.
• Does not maintain documentation and records work updates properly.
• Has difficulties coordinating with others and sharing status updates.
• Lacks attention to detail and often misses important planning steps.
• Unable to estimate time requirements accurately for projects.
• Does not consider quality standards while scheduling work.
• Fails to identify and mitigate risks proactively in project plans.
• Unable to adapt to changes in priorities or scope without issues.
• Struggles to think ahead and anticipate future planning requirements.
• Unable to allocate budgets effectively for projects and tasks.
• Requires reminders to schedule important client or vendor meetings.

Performance review phrases time management

Giving feedback on time management during performance reviews helps employees work more efficiently and meet deadlines. It reminds them to prioritize tasks and manage their workload effectively. Improving time management skills leads to better performance and outcomes for the organization.

Performance review time management phrases

• Performs tasks with dedication and always accomplishes them on time.
• Demonstrates the ability to manage various tasks and complete them punctually.
• Uses time effectively to address both major and minor responsibilities weekly.
• Divides time logically to achieve set goals.
• Sets clear priorities and objectives to remain focused on important tasks.
• Prioritizes tasks and efficiently completes them within given timeframes.
• Prepares detailed schedules and accurately estimates task durations.
• Avoids distractions to maximize productivity.
• Allocates sufficient buffer time for contingencies and revisions.
• Multitasks effectively without compromising work quality.
• Periodically re-evaluates schedules and adjusts timelines proactively.
• Delegates tasks appropriately for optimal workload distribution.
• Regularly monitors progress against schedules and deadlines.
• Consistently completes tasks on time and manages time effectively.
• Respects others’ time and fulfills commitments as promised.
• Transparently shares status and challenges regarding timelines.
• Manages time effectively, even when faced with unexpected challenges.
• Highly organized and effectively manages time to meet all deadlines.
• Unable to manage time effectively, repeatedly missing project deadlines.
• Needs to improve time management skills for better efficiency.
• Should create weekly work plans to optimize task performance.
• Struggles to complete tasks due to ineffective time management.
• Takes excessive time to complete tasks, requiring better weekly planning.
• Fails to prioritize tasks and loses focus on critical assignments.
• Underestimates task durations.
• Procrastinates and delays tasks until the last minute.
• Easily distracted by social media or non-work related activities.
• Lacks planning and scheduling skills to manage work effectively.
• Ineffective in delegating tasks.
• Fails to communicate proactively about delays or missed deadlines.
• Does not set clear objectives or priorities for work.
• Unable to estimate realistic timelines for tasks and projects.
• Does not regularly monitor progress against schedules and deadlines.
• Disregards others’ time and frequently misses commitments.
• Does not take ownership of work and blames external factors for delays.

Performance review phrases attitude

Providing feedback on attitude during performance reviews is important for a positive workplace . It emphasizes the value of teamwork and productivity, helping employees understand how their behavior affects colleagues and the organization’s culture .

• Builds an atmosphere of trust within the team.
• Cheerful attitude uplifts others in his presence.
• Never complains about the job or colleagues.
• Focuses on the positives when dealing with problems.
• Enthusiastically motivates other team members.
• Finds opportunities to praise others for their efforts and accomplishments.
• Maintains a positive outlook even during stressful times.
• Energy and optimism are contagious.
• Makes others feel valued and respected.
• Looks for solutions rather than dwelling on problems.
• Smile and friendly manner create a pleasant work environment.
• Finds the good in every situation.
• Positivity raises the morale of those around him.
• Makes others feel heard and encourages open communication.
• Optimism is contagious and lifts the spirits of colleagues.
• Looks for lessons in failures and mistakes.
• Encouragement and support motivate others to do their best.
• Brings a sense of fun to work.
• Finds ways to acknowledge others for their efforts regularly.
• Friendly demeanor puts others at ease.
• Expresses appreciation for colleagues and their contributions.
• Enthusiasm is contagious and inspires hard work.
• Focuses on shared goals and teamwork rather than individual accomplishments.
• Positivity makes him a pleasure to work with.
• Finds ways to learn from both successes and failures.
• Can-do attitude boosts productivity.
• Makes others feel their contributions are valued.
• Upbeat manner keeps the team working together harmoniously.
• Language and voice level can be inappropriate.
• Tends to trigger problems between coworkers.
• Displays an overly sensitive and pessimistic personality, focusing too much on negatives.
• Talks negatively about other team members.
• Needs to focus on the positive aspects of the job and team.
• Complaints undermine team morale.
• Dwells excessively on problems rather than seeking solutions.
• Contributes to tension and friction within the team.
• Often has troubles with coworkers, easily angered and argumentative.
• Pessimism saps the energy of colleagues.
• Finds fault easily and fails to acknowledge others’ efforts.
• Takes criticism too personally and becomes defensive.
• Blames others and refuses to accept responsibility for mistakes.
• Lacks tact and consideration in interactions.
• Needs to control temper and attitude, avoiding strong reactions to negatives.
• Fails to acknowledge colleagues’ good work.
• Irritability negatively impacts morale and team cohesion.
• Criticism of colleagues breeds resentment and mistrust.
• Sees setbacks as personal failures rather than learning opportunities.
• Complaints and criticisms distract from productive discussions.
• Contributes more problems than solutions.
• Lacks emotional control and self-awareness in interactions.
• Focuses excessively on minor issues rather than larger goals.

Ending a performance review with closing comments is an opportunity to summarize key points, express appreciation, and set expectations for the future.

Here’s how you could do it:

“Thank you for your dedication and commitment throughout this review process. Your hard work and achievements are greatly valued and appreciated. As we move forward, I encourage you to continue building on your strengths and addressing areas for improvement. Thank you again for your contributions to our team.”

For a simple, yet effective method of employee evaluation, download this free 9 box grid template or this free 360 degree feedback template .

Performance evaluation software

Conducting performance reviews can consume a significant amount of your valuable time and require considerable effort to ensure efficiency. Consequently, they are often overlooked or not taken seriously. However, they are among the most useful tools for enhancing workforce productivity and fostering teamwork, thereby sustaining the organization in the long term.

The most effective way to conduct performance reviews is through HR (human resources) software. Factorial, an HR software solution , offers a comprehensive set of performance management tools and analytics . To learn more about how Factorial can streamline your HR processes by centralizing them in a single platform —rather than scattered across spreadsheets, emails, and paperwork— book a demo to chat with an HR product specialist by clicking the banner below or the button in the top right corner!

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53 performance review examples to boost growth

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The importance of performance reviews

53 performance review examples, 3 tips for delivering a performance review to an underperformer, a performance review is an opportunity to foster growth.

Even the most well-intentioned criticism can be hard to hear. 

If you need to give feedback to a peer or employee, you might feel nervous. After all, you can probably empathize — most of us have been in their position. You want the person to know where they excel and how to improve, but you don’t want to come off as harsh or lose your authority. It’s a delicate balance.

When sharing professional feedback, you need to achieve that perfect equilibrium to motivate your team to continue doing their best work. Perfect your delivery by studying these 53 performance review examples.

A performance review -– also known as a performance appraisal — evaluates how well an employee is tracking toward goals and upholding the company vision and values . This formal assessment documents strengths and weaknesses , expectations for improvement , and other relevant employee feedback , like kudos for a standout performance. 

Performance reviews are essential because they provide managers (or employees assessing their peers) with a set time and structure for delivering in-depth, example-driven feedback. It’s also an opportunity for the reviewer to set metrics-based expectations so the reviewee knows how to improve for next time. 

Plus, performance reviews are an excellent opportunity to open lines of communication between peers or a manager and their direct reports. Both sides can clarify questions or concerns about performance, and the reviewer may use this time to motivate the reviewee. These types of workplace conversations build more trusting, engaged, and caring professional relationships. 

Unfortunately, typical performance reviews only inspire 14% of employees . In other words, reviewers need to step up their own performance if they want to make an impression during these meetings.

Effective performance reviews are level-headed and honest. They aren’t excuses to scold an employee for a mistake or poor performance . They make time to offer constructive criticism, praise what the team member is doing well, and provide suggested areas for improvement. 

To keep the conversation as productive as possible, study our list of performance evaluation examples that provide focused feedback and maintain an upbeat, inspiring tone that doesn’t undermine the seriousness of the commentary. 

Here are 53 employee evaluation examples for various scenarios. 

Communication

Good workplace communication helps teams clearly express ideas and work through problems effectively. Respectful communication also fosters healthy social relationships between peers, which are essential for a positive work culture. 

When you assess a colleague on this interpersonal skill , focus on the politeness of their interactions, the coherence of how they present information, and their ability to listen to others actively .

Use performance evaluation comments like the following when a colleague has done an exceptional job of clearly and respectfully communicating:

1. “I’ve noticed how clearly you communicate complex concepts to clients. I really admire this ability.” 

2. “You’re excellent at solving conflicts . Thank you for taking on this responsibility.” 

3. “Several of your teammates have told me how pleasant it is to work with you. Thank you for being such a respectful communicator.”

4. “I’ve been observing your standout negotiation skills and will continue to look for opportunities for you to use them.”

5. “I’d like to congratulate you on your clear and easy-to-follow presentations. Would you consider giving a workshop for your teammates?”

Improvement suggestions 

Poor communication leads to confusion and fraught interactions. Plus, muddled instructions or explanations can cause project errors, and negative delivery can harm team and stakeholder relationships . It’s important for each team member to have this skill.

Here’s how to cite communication that needs improving: 

6. “I’ve noticed that you sometimes miss part of an explanation. I have helpful materials on active listening I recommend taking a look at.” 

7. “Clients have noted that your explanations are difficult to understand. You have a strong grasp of complex concepts, but let’s work together on ways to break them down for an unfamiliar audience.”

8. “I’d appreciate it if you could communicate when there’s an issue on a project or you have a question. I’ve seen delays and errors due to a lack of updates.”

9. “Some of your emails to clients have had spelling and grammar errors. Could you make an extra effort to check your work so that we keep our company communication as polished as possible?” 

10. “Your teammates have cited rude interactions with you. We must keep communication respectful. Is something going on that’s causing you frustration or prompting these interactions?”

Innovation and creativity 

Innovative solutions and creativity allow organizations to generate new products and services, build a more resonant brand image, and connect successfully with their target audience. When giving a performance review, provide positive feedback on how the person contributes to the team or company’s growth. 

Teammates who offer fresh ideas for projects or ways to improve company processes to boost efficiency deserve a proverbial pat on the back. Here are five performance appraisal examples that show how to give it:

11. “Last quarter, you saved our team 50 hours of administrative work with your solution for streamlining databases. Thank you for this invaluable idea.”

12. “The marketing campaign you created to target younger audiences has been one of our most successful. Everyone on our team has something to learn from you.” 

13. “You’ve been integral to launching one of the most innovative apps on the market. You should be proud of yourself. You’re helping a lot of end users.” 

14. “I admire the way you creatively approach complex problems . You resolved a tricky supply chain issue that kept our deliveries on track.”

15. “You deeply understand the brand image and voice. All of your marketing copy and designs represent us well.”

Improvement suggestions

Team members in creativity- and innovation-driven roles may stagnate. Your organization might have a performance review template you can follow to zero on in how to improve in these areas. You can also use the following feedback pieces to push them in the right direction:

16. "You’re one of our most valued graphic designers. However, I’ve noticed that your recent designs have been similar. Let’s talk about ways to innovate.”

17. “Since you’re in a leadership role, I would like it if you took more initiative to offer creative solutions to problems . I have some reading to guide you.” 

18. “I’ve noticed that your copy lacks that fresh voice we admire. Have you also tracked this change, and what solutions do you have to liven up the writing?”

19. “You’ve offered some of the most innovative development ideas our company’s seen. But you’ve been quiet in brainstorming sessions lately. Let’s talk about what may be going on.”

20. “Your latest product innovation had flaws resulting from rushed work and a lack of attention to detail. Does that resonate?”

Everyone can be a leader — regardless of their rank at an organization. Team members set examples for their peers, and managers guide reports toward success. Whether you’re giving a performance review for a veteran or an entry-level employee, address their leadership skills where you can. 

When an employee exceeds expectations by mentoring others, taking charge of problems, and upholding organizational values , recognize their outstanding work with phrases like the following:

21. “Your positive attitude , willingness to take on more responsibility, and ability to explain concepts to your peers makes you an example to all.”

22. “I appreciate your advances in developing better leadership skills, like clear communication and excellent negotiation tactics. Kudos.” 

23. “I know you started here recently, but many people already look up to you. You take initiative, aren’t afraid to share ideas, and treat your peers respectfully.” 

24. “Since you’ve become a project manager, the development team consistently delivers quality outputs on time. You’re doing a great job guiding the group.” 

25. “When there was a conflict with a client last month, you stepped in to manage it. You have the makings of a great leader.”

If an employee like a project manager or team lead isn’t mentoring others as well as they could, a performance review is the perfect moment to tackle the issue. And if you have a stellar employee who isn’t showing the leadership and initiative required to earn them a promotion, they might need some encouragement to strengthen these skills. Use the following examples as a guide for wording your feedback:

26. “You’ve consistently been an excellent leader, but teammates have reported a lack of mentorship on recent projects, leading to confusion and poor results. What can we do to improve the clarity of your communication and guidance?”

27. “I’ve noticed that you’re stepping back from public speaking opportunities. You’re a strong leader already, but giving talks is an inevitable part of your role. Here’s information on a speaking course I took that could help.”

28. “Some of your teammates have said you’re difficult to approach with a problem. Let’s work to improve your communication skills to make others comfortable asking you for help.” 

29. “Your communication and mentorship skills are unmatched, but you still have to improve your time management skills. Several projects have run late, impacting client deliveries.” 

30. “You form excellent social relationships with your team, but you may be getting too close. I’m concerned you could lose your authority if you continue to act more like a peer than a mentor.” 

Collaboration and teamwork

Teams must work well together — it’s synergy that allows them to accomplish more than they’d be able to alone. Collaboration drives better organizational results and fosters a communicative, innovative work environment. Here’s how to tackle this topic in a performance appraisal.

Certain team members go above and beyond to help peers, manage conflicts, and share their knowledge. Reward them with statements like the following: 

31. “You’re an excellent resource for new team members. Thank you for being willing to share what you know.” 

32. “Your ability to adapt when obstacles arise and encourage your teammates to do the same has saved us from late deliveries several times. Congratulations, and thank you.”

33. “You didn’t have to navigate that conflict between your peers last week, but you stepped up. I think everyone in your group learned something from you that day.” 

34. “I know you’d like to be doing more on projects, but I appreciate that you’re splitting the work with newer teammates so they can learn. Exciting opportunities are coming your way soon.” 

35. “Your team traditionally had trouble working together. Thank you for identifying their strengths and guiding them as a leader to use them in harmony.” 

Employees resisting participation in a team or creating conflicts must change behaviors to help their peers thrive. Here are a few ways to suggest improvements: 

36. “I’ve noticed that you’ve been canceling team meetings and avoiding social events. Let’s talk about what’s going on.” 

37. “It’s great to challenge your peers' ideas, but I’ve repeatedly observed you push contrary thoughts when the rest of the team has reached a consensus. This can hold up projects, so I’d like to ask you to be more flexible.” 

38. “I know you’ve been very busy, but could you take more time to share your skills with others? There are new team members who could learn from you.” 

39. “You’re sometimes quick to nix others’ ideas. Try listening to their suggestions with a more open mind to be a better team player.” 

40. “You’re an involved leader, and that’s an excellent trait. But sometimes, you get too close to a project, and your guidance borders on micromanaging . I’d encourage you to try taking a step back when the team is working well together.”

Work ethic and organization

Punctuality, time management , and planning keep work flowing. In performance reviews, ensure all team members understand how their work ethics contribute to overall success.  

Show your appreciation to those employees who keep administrative tasks running smoothly. Here are some examples:

41. “Thank you for changing our customer relationship management system. Now everyone can access data more easily, and it’s improved our workflow.” 

42. “Your persistence in implementing the Agile project management framework has paid off. We’re delivering better, more timely products to clients.”

43. “You’re never late and sometimes even early. I appreciate your dedication to punctuality. It helps meetings run on time, and the day gets off to a strong start.”

44. “You always answer clients’ emails promptly. Thank you for your dedication to excellent customer service.” 

45. “As a project manager, you do a great job resolving teammate’s blockers efficiently. This allows them to perform tasks confidently and keeps projects on track.” 

Improvement suggestion

Employees who consistently arrive late or have trouble organizing tasks and following company processes negatively impact others’ ability to work well — not to mention their own. Here are constructive employee review examples for those cases: 

46. “You’re often tardy to meetings, which causes your teammates and clients to wait. This can be frustrating for stakeholders. I’d like to share some tips for time management.” 

47. “I’ve noticed you consistently turn in work late. I’m concerned you may have too much on your plate. Let’s assess your workload.”

48. “Client emails are falling through the cracks, making us look like we don’t care. Here’s a system I use to ensure I respond to every email quickly.”  

49. “I understand the new customer relationship management system is tricky, but we need everyone to get on board. Would it be helpful if I set up an additional training session to walk you through the software?”

50. “You didn’t meet your goals this quarter, so I’m modifying them for the upcoming one. Please let me know if you need tools, skills, or support to make achieving these goals possible.”

Performance review summary examples

Wrap up your review by revisiting what the employee has done well and highlighting the improvements they should make. Here are three examples you can model your performance review summary on:

51. “You’ve improved your communication and public speaking skills this quarter, making you a stronger leader. But you can still work on your task and time management skills by implementing better organizational practices.” 

52. “Your first few months at the company have been a success. You’ve learned to use our tools and processes, and your teammates enjoy working with you. Next quarter, I’d like you to take more initiative in brainstorming sessions.” 

53. “You’re a long-time valued employee, and you have a unique talent as a graphic designer. Your social media campaign last quarter was top-notch, but others have been stagnant. I know you can tap into your talents and do more innovative work.”

You’re a compassionate leader and never want to hurt anyone’s feelings. But in a performance review , you may have to deliver tricky constructive criticism . You’re giving this feedback with the best intentions, but doing so might make the other person defensive. Keep the conversation productive and focus on framing improvement as a positive with these three tips:

• Start and end on a high note: Open the conversation with what the employee has done well and circle back to this point after giving criticism. This will remind the employee of their value. 
• Use metrics: Don’t run a performance review on “gut feelings.” Quantifiable metrics and clear feedback allow you to identify areas of improvement. You must demonstrate specific examples and measurable figures to back up your claims. Otherwise, your criticism can seem unfounded. 
• Offer suggestions: An employee may not know how to interpret feedback and translate it into action items. And they might have some concluding performance review questions about how to improve. Offer help and a professional development plan so the person feels inspired, capable, and supported in making the changes you suggest.

Many fear receiving and giving sub-optimal feedback. However, in performance reviews, colleagues inevitably highlight negative aspects of a person’s work.

But if you establish a healthy balance between recognizing an employee’s strengths and offering constructive feedback for improvement (like in our performance review examples), these sessions turn into growth opportunities. Your colleagues take on new challenges, acquire better skills, and become more understanding teammates thanks to criticism.

And guess what? The next performance review will be less nerve-wracking for everyone involved.

Lead with confidence and authenticity

Develop your leadership and strategic management skills with the help of an expert Coach.

Elizabeth Perry, ACC

Elizabeth Perry is a Coach Community Manager at BetterUp. She uses strategic engagement strategies to cultivate a learning community across a global network of Coaches through in-person and virtual experiences, technology-enabled platforms, and strategic coaching industry partnerships. With over 3 years of coaching experience and a certification in transformative leadership and life coaching from Sofia University, Elizabeth leverages transpersonal psychology expertise to help coaches and clients gain awareness of their behavioral and thought patterns, discover their purpose and passions, and elevate their potential. She is a lifelong student of psychology, personal growth, and human potential as well as an ICF-certified ACC transpersonal life and leadership Coach.

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Performance reviews, love them or hate them, are a necessary practice for successful teams and organizations. And while performance reviews have long been fighting a negative reputation around fairness and usefulness – this is largely because team members aren’t being reviewed on their complete performance. Managers are often so limited on time they aren’t able to provide comprehensive reviews or are too focused on their compensation limits to give employees the recognition they deserve. 

But the workforce landscape has changed – and performance reviews need to change with it. Employees want work-life balance, time to get through their work, and not to be run down by meetings. So when we consider that only 22.1% of employee burnout comes from inadequate pay vs. 63.4% burnout from lack of time for focused work – it’s clear employees want a more productive work environment than more money to perform at their best.

So whether you’re writing your first round of performance reviews or researching how to revamp a more effective review process for your company – we’ve got you covered. In this post, you’ll learn everything you need to know about performance reviews:

What are performance reviews?

Performance reviews are changing, how to conduct performance reviews, performance review template.

• 35 example phrases for performance reviews
• Post-performance review

Performance reviews: those two words can elicit a mix of emotions from managers and employees alike. Some dread them, some embrace them, but one thing is certain — some kind of performance review or evaluation is necessary to run a team. 

So what are performance reviews? Performance reviews are regular evaluations by management to assess an employee’s job performance. Think of them as a time to hit the pause button, reflect, and evaluate how your team members are doing in their roles. 

Think of performance reviews as a compass that guides employees toward their full potential while also steering the organization toward its goals. After all, 37% of employees say receiving more personal recognition would encourage them to produce better work and motivate them to go above and beyond.

At their core, an employee performance review serves two purposes:

• They help assess an individual employee's performance and provide feedback to support their growth, development, and job satisfaction . 
• They allow managers to align their team's performance with the organization's goals to keep everyone moving in the same direction.

Even so, performance reviews are not just a one-way street – they need open dialogue between you and your team members. Employees should be able to share their thoughts, aspirations, and concerns, as an effective performance review process should be focused around how an individual can grow.

Dating back to WWII, performance reviews first started when the US Army began ranking its high-potential soldiers. But it wasn’t until the 1980s when Jack Welch , the CEO of GE, standardized and popularized performance reviews for corporate use. 

But many companies today (including GE) have since abandoned this traditional model – as 55% of workers say the annual performance review does not improve their performance. Even 77% of HR leaders do not believe annual performance reviews are accurate measurements of an employee's work. 

So many organizations are embracing new approaches to performance reviews that prioritize frequent discussions to improve employee performance and satisfaction: 

• Instead of a single annual review, managers hold regular touchpoints with employees.
• Relying less on unfair “single score” rating systems.
• Providing ongoing feedback, focusing on improvement.
• Restructuring discussions to support open dialogue.
• Embracing a variety of performance management apps for more immediate feedback.

Nevertheless, this doesn't mean you should quit performance reviews altogether. Your employees still want to know how they're doing in their roles. 

For example, PwC discontinued formal reviews (and its numbered performance rating system) for all 200,000 employees, and many people pushed back . So they needed to build a new review process that gave employees the feedback they needed without the unfair parameters – and they found a much better system. PwC now combines the benefits of ongoing conversations with periodic assessments using scores across 5 competencies, instead of solely relying on single numerical performance ratings. 

The changing landscape of performance reviews really reflects how much the traditional approach fell short for both employees and organizations. By embracing new models that foster ongoing communication, shorter-term priorities, and a focus on continuous improvement – you can improve both the motivation and performance of your employees. 

So, how should you conduct employee performance reviews today? While the traditional annual performance review may be out, that doesn't mean performance management has. Here’s how you can accurately and consistently evaluate your team's performance:

1. Set your review standards

Before diving into the performance review process, you'll first need to lay the groundwork. What standards will you use to evaluate the performance of your employees? Your team should know what their day-to-day expectations are when it comes to their performance. This may sound rather obvious, but it's essential for conducting objective and fair reviews. After all, 85% of employees say they would quit after experiencing an unfair performance review. 

Here are popular review standards include to broadly review employee performance:

• Teamwork: Does the employee actively help the team, and request or offer assistance where necessary?
• Problem-solving: Does the employee display strong problem-solving skills and explore creative solutions?
• Productivity: Does the employee stay true to deadlines and consistently finish their projects on time?
• Communication: Does the employee clearly communicate with managers, team members, and customers?
• Quality of work: Does the employee consistently produce the quality of work that’s expected for their role?
• Attendance & dependability: Does the employee show up when expected, and a reliable member of the team?
• Initiative: Does the employee take responsibility, have the ability to work independently, and display initiative? 
• Coworker relations: Does the employee interact well with coworkers and enhance the team dynamic?

2. Keep things positive & constructive

Performance reviews aren't meant to be punishing. As a manager, you don't want your employees to feel bad, upset, or hurt by the review – this is not how you boost productivity. The ideal outcome is to motivate your employee – and you do this by recognizing their efforts while constructively addressing areas of improvement. 

Keep your performance reviews honest and educational by making it a two-way conversation. No one wants to walk into a one-sided lecture focused on all the things they’re doing wrong. So, encourage your team members to share their perspectives on past performance, challenges, and ideas for improvement – actively listening to their input and concerns. To get the conversation going, you could ask open-ended questions like:

• "What are your thoughts on your performance over the past review period?"
• What were some challenges you faced during this time, and how did you handle them?"
• "What aspects of your role do you find most fulfilling, and why?"
• "In what areas do you feel you've made the most progress, and why?"
• "What support or resources do you need from me to excel in your role?"

And when offering feedback during a performance review, make sure it’s actionable and focused on improvement. Avoid spending too much time on past mistakes or focusing solely on areas of weakness. Instead, highlight achievements, acknowledge progress, and provide guidance on how to further enhance their performance further. It’s best to come prepared with concrete examples to illustrate your points and offer suggestions for development and growth.

3. Be specific, not vague

Ever received the “It’s not right, we need to make it better” feedback before? It’s super vague and about the most unhelpful feedback you can receive. The more precise and detailed your performance feedback is, the more your employee will be able to understand and take meaningful action to improve from it.

Always provide specific and descriptive feedback rather than relying on vague generalizations. When expressed in overly broad terms, feedback tends to be less well-received. Some employees may perceive it as a personal attack rather than constructive criticism, making them even less motivated to improve. 

Telling a developer during a performance review, "Your code during this project was sloppy," is only going to hurt their feelings and make them defensive. Instead, use more productive language to offer constructive feedback, such as, "I noticed your code included several bugs, which gave me the impression you were in a rush to deliver it. What I find helpful is to set aside more time for code review so we can catch these earlier. Let’s plan to work that into the next sprint."

4. Use quantifiable goals & data

Wherever possible, take advantage of quantifiable data and goals in your performance reviews. This, of course, requires quantifiable data around the employees' role and performance, which some positions are much easier to gather and track than others. But it’s incredibly valuable if you have it – employees can see their clear goals and track their ongoing performance to stay organized and motivated toward those goals.

Instead of simply telling a salesperson during their performance review, "Your sales call engagement has been way down this past quarter," you can provide a more impactful statement: "During this past quarter, it looks like only 20% of your new sales calls booked resulted in a follow-up call, which may have impacted the 25% drop in your close rate. We actually have a helpful library of scripts with great closing statements to get the follow-up booked. Let’s take a look at how we can leverage these in calls this quarter."

Quantifying the impact adds context to the feedback, and allows you to illustrate a much better recap of their performance. When they can understand the direct correlation between their actions and outcomes, employees are better equipped to take proactive steps on where to improve.

However, you need reliable and objective data to keep these performance reviews fair and honest. As we mentioned, the perceived fairness of a performance review will determine both how it's received and whether employees will adapt going forward. If an employee feels they’re being treated unfairly, they’re more likely going to be investing more time into finding a new job vs. improving their current one. 

While creating fair, accurate, and constructive reviews is challenging – it doesn’t have to be once you get your template down. Here’s a sample performance review template you can use to optimize your process:

Performance review phrases - 35 examples

Once you have the template down, you may be wondering: what do I say to the employee during their performance reviews? It's a fair question; the whole thing can feel a bit awkward, and delivering feedback in a diplomatic and constructive manner isn't always straightforward. 

So, here are some of the top performance review phrases for your next performance review:

Recognize strong performance

• "You consistently go above and beyond, smashing your targets and showing unmatched dedication."
• "Your out-of-the-box thinking and creative problem-solving have revolutionized our processes and brought impressive results."
• "You're a master at juggling multiple projects, ensuring they all get done on time and with outstanding results."
• "Your meticulous attention to detail and precise work has consistently delivered high-quality outputs."
• "Your leadership skills shine, inspiring and motivating the team to achieve great things together.

Address a performance gap

• "Let's talk about an area where we can improve. I've noticed a gap between your targets and current results, and I believe we can work together to bridge that gap."
• "I want to address some challenges we've been facing. Let’s take a look at a couple of ways you can enhance your performance to meet the expected standards."
• "I've noticed some opportunities for growth. Let's work on closing the gap between your current performance and expectations."
• "We need to address some areas where improvement is needed. Let's collaborate on strategies to boost your performance and reach the desired level."
• "I want to discuss an opportunity for development. I've identified some areas where you can enhance your skills and overcome the performance gap."

Provide constructive feedback

• "I wanted to share some feedback for growth. I've noticed some areas where you have an opportunity to enhance your performance and reach even greater heights."
• "Let's have an open conversation about areas where we can fine-tune your skills. I believe with some adjustments, you can become even more effective in your role."
• "I appreciate all of your hard work, and I'd like to provide some constructive feedback. Let’s take a look at some specific areas where we can work together to elevate your performance."
• "I wanted to discuss some opportunities for improvement. By addressing these areas head-on, we can unlock your full potential and achieve exceptional results."
• "I have some suggestions to help you grow and develop. Let's talk about how we can enhance your skills and maximize your impact."

Demonstrated initiative

• "I wanted to acknowledge your impressive initiative. Your proactive approach to taking on additional responsibilities and seeking opportunities to contribute has made a significant impact on our team's success."
• "Your go-getter attitude is truly admirable. You consistently show initiative by going above and beyond in your work and taking ownership of projects. Your dedication and drive inspire others around you."
• "I've noticed your exceptional initiative in identifying areas for improvement and implementing innovative solutions. Your proactive mindset has contributed to streamlining processes and driving efficiency."
• "Your initiative in seeking out new challenges and proposing creative ideas has been remarkable. Your willingness to step outside your comfort zone and take calculated risks has paid off in achieving remarkable outcomes."
• "Your proactive mindset really sets you apart. You consistently demonstrate initiative by anticipating needs, suggesting improvements, and taking action. Your resourcefulness and independent thinking are invaluable."

Collaboration & teamwork

• "I wanted to acknowledge your outstanding collaboration skills. Your ability to work effectively with colleagues from different teams and departments has such a positive impact on our work culture."
• "Your teamwork is exceptional. You consistently foster collaboration by actively listening, valuing diverse perspectives, and building strong relationships. Your dedication to working together towards shared goals is highly appreciated."
• "Your collaborative approach has made a significant impact on our team's success. Your ability to bring people together, encourage open communication, and facilitate productive discussions has strengthened our team dynamics."
• "I've noticed your outstanding teamwork skills in action. Your willingness to offer support, share knowledge, and collaborate on projects has had a positive ripple effect, creating a culture of collaboration within the team."
• "Your ability to collaborate across departments and align efforts towards shared objectives is remarkable. Your inclusive approach and willingness to go the extra mile has had such a successful impact on our joint initiatives."

Leadership potential

• "I wanted to acknowledge your natural leadership qualities. Your ability to inspire and motivate others, coupled with your strong decision-making skills, sets you apart as a potential leader within our organization."
• "Your leadership potential is evident. You consistently demonstrate the ability to guide and support others, foster a positive team dynamic, and make sound decisions. We would love to help you grow into a leadership role at the company.."
• "I've noticed your exceptional leadership potential. Your ability to take charge, set a clear vision, and rally the team towards common goals showcases your natural leadership abilities."
• "Your leadership qualities shine through in your actions. You consistently lead by example, display strong interpersonal skills, and inspire others to achieve their best. Your potential to lead others is remarkable."
• "Your leadership potential is evident in your ability to effectively communicate, delegate tasks, and motivate team members. Your vision and dedication make you a natural candidate for future leadership roles."

Problem-solving abilities

• "I wanted to acknowledge your exceptional problem-solving abilities. Your analytical skills, creativity, and ability to think outside the box consistently led to new solutions and positive outcomes."
• "Your problem-solving skills are impressive. You consistently approach challenges with a strategic mindset to identify root causes and develop innovative solutions. Your ability to navigate complex problems is commendable."
• "I've noticed your remarkable problem-solving abilities. Your logical thinking, attention to detail, and ability to analyze situations from multiple perspectives consistently result in effective solutions."
• "Your ability to tackle difficult problems head-on is commendable. You consistently demonstrate resourcefulness, resilience, and critical thinking in finding viable solutions. Your problem-solving skills are invaluable."
• "I wanted to recognize your outstanding problem-solving skills. Your ability to identify obstacles, develop creative alternatives, and implement effective solutions is truly impressive. You approach challenges with confidence and determination."

Follow-up after the performance review

While the hard part of compiling and completing the performance review is over – now it’s time to follow up on all the goals and next steps you’ve discussed with your employee. 

Here’s how you can maximize the impact of your performance reviews via continuous feedback and improvements:

1. Follow up on next steps

Every performance review should come with some actionable next steps for the employee (and the manager). Of course, as their manager, you shouldn't leave your team in the lurch – you need to follow up and monitor the action items from the discussion. How is your employee doing? Are they hitting the goals you've set out during the review? Are they struggling to do so and require more support from you? These are the questions you should regularly ask yourself following a performance review with your team.

2. Monitor progress on goals

How are things going after your review? Keep those action items in mind for all of your upcoming one-on-one meetings with the employee so you can regularly check in and monitor progress toward their goals. Weekly (or bi-weekly) touch-base meetings will help you provide guidance, and helpful feedback, offer support, and consistently assess their growth. These ongoing conversations will allow your employee to get the ongoing feedback they need to make  adjustments, ask questions about challenges, and give you the opportunity to recognize achievements as they continue to grow.

3. Encourage self-reflection

In your next meeting, ask your employee to reflect on their own performance and progress. By promoting self-reflection, you empower them to take ownership of their personal and professional development and continuously strive for improvement. Encourage them to regularly assess their strengths, identify areas for growth, and seek opportunities to apply feedback received during the performance review. And by providing them with access to data around their performance, they’ll have a better understanding of their productivity and will be more motivated to hit the goals set out for them.

4. Foster a culture of feedback

Beyond the formal performance review process, you'll want to do your part to foster a culture of continuous feedback and open communication – and that means a two-way street. Encourage managers and employees to regularly discuss performance, development, and goal alignment, emphasizing the importance of constructive feedback, recognition of achievements, and support for ongoing growth. Be open to feedback yourself – asking regularly, “what can I do to better support you in your role?”

5. Explore performance management tools

Finally, consider using performance management tools or software platforms to streamline and enhance the feedback and review process. Many of the companies we mentioned earlier have adopted such tools. GE, for instance, uses an app called PD@GE to conduct its employee evaluations in lieu of annual performance reviews. These tools can facilitate ongoing feedback, goal tracking, and performance monitoring through a centralized platform to ensure fair and effective performance evaluations across your team. You can also explore productivity and time-tracking apps like Reclaim.ai to ensure employees aren’t wasting too much time in meetings, have adequate time for task work in their schedules, and analyze time-consuming activities week-to-week.

Nurture employee growth with performance reviews 🌱

Performance reviews are far more than just a box to check — they’re a powerful tool for driving employee growth and organizational success. Effective performance reviews create a culture of open communication, where feedback flows freely, and improvement becomes the norm. From recognizing strong performance to addressing gaps and offering constructive feedback, managers play a crucial role in guiding the continuous growth of their employees.

Did we miss anything? How do you conduct performance reviews with your team? Tweet us @reclaimai to let us know!

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Preparing for The Annual Review: Writing a Stellar Self-Review

January 8, 2024

Jason Cortel

As annual review time approaches, many employees reflect on the past year’s accomplishments and challenges. This period is crucial for personal and professional development, offering a unique opportunity to showcase your achievements and learn from your experiences. Crafting a positive self-review is key to this process, but balancing highlighting successes with acknowledging mistakes can be challenging. This article guides you through writing an effective self-review, focusing on the top 12 areas typically covered in such evaluations.

What Are Annual Self-Reviews, and Why Are They Important?

Self-reviews, often part of annual performance reviews , allow individuals to assess their work performance. They provide a platform to reflect on successes, identify areas for improvement, and align future goals with organizational objectives. A well-written self-review can enhance your professional growth and open doors for further opportunities within your organization.

Common Areas Covered in Annual Self-Reviews:

• Job Performance and Skills: Reflect on your duties and how effectively you’ve performed them.
• Achievements and Milestones: Highlight significant accomplishments over the review period.
• Learning and Development: Discuss new skills learned and professional development activities.
• Work Relationships: Examine your interactions and collaborations with colleagues and management.
• Communication Skills: Assess your effectiveness in conveying information and receiving feedback.
• Problem-Solving Abilities: Reflect on how you’ve navigated challenges and obstacles.
• Adaptability: Evaluate your response to changes in the work environment.
• Creativity and Innovation: Consider any new ideas or approaches you’ve introduced.
• Leadership and Teamwork: If applicable, discuss your role in leading or contributing to teams.
• Time Management: Analyze your efficiency and ability to meet deadlines.
• Goals and Objectives: Review the goals set at the last review and your progress towards them.
• Future Aspirations: Outline your future objectives and how you plan to achieve them.

Writing About Successes: Annual Self-Review Examples

Writing about your success in your annual self-review is difficult but critical. Make sure to quantify the success rather than in general.

How to write about achieving goals in your annual review:

“This year, I completed Project X, exceeding our target by 15%. This achievement not only demonstrates my commitment to our team’s objectives but also my ability to deliver high-quality results under pressure.”

How to write about skill development in your annual review:

“I have significantly improved my technical skills by completing an advanced course in Y, which has already positively impacted my efficiency and productivity.”

How to write about effective communication in your self-review:

“I have consistently maintained clear and open communication with my team, leading to a more collaborative and supportive work environment.”

How to write about your problem-solving skills in your annual self-review:

“Faced with Z challenge, I developed a creative solution that streamlined our process, saving the team numerous hours of work.”

Writing About Mistakes and Failures in Your Annual Review

Addressing mistakes and failures in your self-review is essential for demonstrating self-awareness and a commitment to professional growth. The key is to present these instances as errors and valuable learning opportunities. Here’s how to constructively write about common workplace challenges such as missing deadlines, not meeting performance targets, and having poor communication skills.

How to write about missed deadlines in your annual review:

“In this quarter, I encountered challenges with time management, leading to missed deadlines for Projects A and B. This experience highlighted the need for better planning and prioritization. To address this, I have started using a more robust project management tool and enrolled in a time management workshop to enhance my skills. These steps are already showing positive results in my current projects.”

How to write about missed performance targets in your annual review:

“During the last fiscal year, I fell short of my sales target by 10%. This shortfall prompted a thorough analysis of my sales strategies and customer engagement techniques. I realized the need for a more data-driven approach and have since undertaken training in data analytics for sales. I am also closely mentoring a senior sales executive to refine my techniques, aiming for a substantial improvement in the coming year.”

How to write about poor communication skills in your annual review:

“Feedback from my team indicated that my communication style sometimes lacked clarity, impacting our project outcomes. Reflecting on this, I recognize the importance of clear and effective communication in our collaborative environment. To improve, I have enrolled in a professional communication skills course and have started implementing strategies like summarizing key points at the end of meetings and actively seeking feedback to ensure understanding. These changes are helping me communicate more effectively with my colleagues.”

By framing your mistakes and failures in this manner, you acknowledge your shortcomings and demonstrate proactive steps toward improvement, showing your commitment to personal and professional development.

How do you write a positive and effective self-review?

The importance of annual self-reviews has been magnified. Whether your organization still adheres to traditional annual reviews or has moved to a more fluid model, crafting an effective self-review is a vital skill.

1. Reflect Objectively on Your Achievements

Begin your annual self-review by objectively assessing your accomplishments over the review period. Be specific and quantifiable. For instance, if you led a project, mention how it benefited the company, such as increasing revenue by a certain percentage or enhancing customer satisfaction. This is not the time for modesty – clearly articulate your successes.

2. Acknowledge Challenges and Growth Areas

An effective annual self-review isn’t just a highlight reel. It’s equally important to acknowledge areas where you faced challenges or where there’s room for growth. This demonstrates self-awareness and a commitment to professional development. Frame these challenges positively, focusing on what you’ve learned and how you plan to improve.

3. Align with Organizational Goals

Align your achievements and goals with those of the organization. This shows that you’re not just working hard, but you’re working smart – contributing to the larger objectives of your company.

4. Set Specific, Measurable Goals

Your annual self-review should include goals for the upcoming period. These should be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound ( SMART ). By setting clear goals, you demonstrate foresight and a proactive approach to your career development.

5. Seek Feedback and Incorporate It

Don’t work in a vacuum. Seek feedback from peers and managers before finalizing your annual review. This not only provides you with different perspectives but also helps in demonstrating your openness to feedback and collaborative improvement.

6. Review Regularly and Update

A self-review shouldn’t be a once-a-year activity. Regularly revisit and update your review to reflect new achievements and revised goals. This keeps your professional development dynamic and responsive.

Writing an annual self-review is a powerful exercise in self-assessment and professional development. By highlighting your successes and learning from your mistakes, you demonstrate your commitment to personal growth and your value to the organization. As you prepare for your annual performance review, remember to use this opportunity to celebrate your achievements, acknowledge your learnings, and set meaningful goals for the year ahead.

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Jason Cortel is currently the Director of Global Workforce Management for a leading technology company. He has been in customer service, marketing, and sales services for over 20 years. In addition, he has extensive experience in offshore and nearshore outsourcing. Jason is an avid Star Trek fan and is on a mission to change the universe by helping people develop professionally. He is driven to help managers and leaders lead their teams better. Jason is also a veteran in creating talent and office cultures.

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220 Performance Review Phrases for the Workplace

By: Grace He | Updated: December 01, 2023

You found our list of the best performance review phrases .

Performance review phrases are short sentences that summarize observations about an employee’s drive, work ethic, and other qualities. For example, these reviews can address poor attendance, effective organizational skills, or dedication to company goals. The purpose of these phrases is to praise staff members who are doing well and assist those who may be struggling.

These phrases are similar to constructive feedback examples and may be helpful during employee journey mapping . Checking out employee feedback tips before giving a performance review may be helpful.

This list includes:

• performance review phrases for communication
• performance review phrases for quality of work
• performance review phrases for job knowledge
• performance review phrases for teamwork
• performance review phrases for productivity
• performance review phrases for initiative
• performance review phrases for accountability
• performance review phrases for growth
• performance review phrases for leadership
• performance review phrases for new employees
• performance review phrases for longtime employees
• “opportunities for improvement” performance review phrases

Here we go!

Performance review phrases for communication

Positive comments.

• Demonstrates excellent listening skills and actively engages in conversations.
• Communicates ideas clearly and concisely.
• Excels at fostering a cooperative environment and encouraging open dialogue.
• Responds promptly to emails, messages, and requests.
• Tailors communication style to suit the audience.
• Handles conflicts and disagreements professionally and finds resolutions.
• Delivers engaging, captivating, and impactful presentations.
• Contributes valuable insights and ideas in meetings while actively listening to others.
• Uses positive and constructive language when providing feedback or addressing issues.
• Facilitates smooth communication between different departments.

Constructive Feedback

• Should focus on breaking down complex concepts into more accessible language.
• Needs to improve follow-up communication to ensure that issues are addressed promptly.
• Should strive to create a more positive and inclusive environment in team communications.
• Needs to pay more attention to nonverbal cues to understand unspoken concerns or reactions.
• Should work on managing interruptions during discussions.
• Needs to develop better techniques for handling tense situations.
• Could benefit from practicing more concise email communication to increase clarity.
• Needs to recognize and acknowledge team members’ achievements and efforts.
• Should strive to use more inclusive language that respects diverse perspectives and backgrounds.
• Should work on finding a balance between listening actively and contributing ideas during team discussions.

Performance review phrases for quality of work

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• Seeks out opportunities to learn and improve work-related skills.
• Takes ownership of mistakes and proactively works to correct them.
• Displays a strong ability to assess and analyze work outcomes critically.
• Shows a commitment to meeting deadlines without compromising quality.
• Takes the initiative to suggest and implement improvements to work processes.
• Produces work that consistently receives positive feedback from peers, clients, or supervisors.
• Shows exceptional accuracy in completing tasks and assignments.
• Has a keen eye for identifying and resolving issues.
• Pays close attention to detail, resulting in error-free outputs.
• Consistently produces work that meets strict regulatory or compliance standards.
• Often produces work that contains errors, requiring frequent revisions.
• Struggles to meet quality standards and often requires additional supervision.
• Fails to take corrective action or learn from mistakes, leading to repeated errors.
• Does not demonstrate a commitment to producing work that meets established standards.
• Demonstrates poor organization and planning, resulting in rushed and substandard work.
• Shows a consistent disregard for feedback, leading to minimal improvement in work quality.
• Demonstrates a lack of attention to detail, leading to avoidable mistakes.
• Frequently misses deadlines since work often needs extensive revisions and corrections.
• Regularly overlooks critical information, impacting accuracy.
• Displays a lack of accountability for mistakes, often blaming others or external factors.

Performance review phrases for job knowledge

• Demonstrates a deep understanding of their role and responsibilities.
• Possesses a comprehensive knowledge of the industry and relevant trends.
• Shows a strong grasp of the organization’s products, services, and processes.
• Continuously seeks opportunities to expand their knowledge and skills.
• Quickly grasps new concepts and adapts well to changing situations.
• Shares knowledge willingly and contributes to the development of others.
• Regularly attends training sessions and workshops to stay up-to-date with industry developments.
• Displays a strong ability to explain complex concepts in a clear and understandable manner.
• Acts as a go-to resource for team members seeking guidance or information.
• Demonstrates a high level of expertise in their area of specialization.
• Struggles to grasp key concepts and frequently requires guidance to complete tasks.
• Demonstrates a lack of understanding of essential job responsibilities and requirements.
• Often provides inaccurate or outdated information, leading to mistakes and miscommunications.
• Displays a reluctance to learn new skills or stay updated in their field.
• Struggles to communicate complex concepts to others clearly.
• Demonstrates a lack of curiosity and initiative to expand their knowledge base.
• Relies heavily on others to provide information and does not take ownership of their learning.
• Demonstrates a limited understanding of the organization’s products, services, and processes.
• Shows a lack of awareness of the competitive landscape and industry benchmarks.
• Frequently makes decisions based on incomplete or inaccurate information.

Performance review phrases for teamwork

• Collaborates effectively with colleagues to achieve shared goals.
• Demonstrates a willingness to assist team members and readily offers support.
• Actively contributes to group discussions and brainstorming sessions.
• Builds positive working relationships and fosters a supportive team environment.
• Shows a strong sense of responsibility for team success and takes ownership of tasks.
• Respects diverse perspectives and actively seeks input from others.
• Recognizes and acknowledges the contributions of fellow team members.
• Demonstrates flexibility in adapting to different team dynamics and challenges.
• Offers constructive feedback in a considerate and helpful manner.
• Has a positive attitude, even during challenging team situations.
• Struggles to collaborate effectively with colleagues, often working in isolation.
• Frequently disrupts group discussions with unconstructive criticism or negativity.
• Shows a lack of commitment to team goals and often prioritizes individual objectives.
• Exhibits resistance to accepting feedback or incorporating suggestions from teammates.
• Struggles to respect diverse perspectives and dismisses input from others.
• Displays inflexibility in adapting to changing team dynamics or priorities.
• Exhibits a negative attitude that impacts team morale and motivation.
• Avoids addressing conflicts within the team, allowing issues to escalate.
• Demonstrates unreliability in fulfilling team commitments and deadlines.
• Is resistant to working with newcomers and fails to help them integrate into the team.

Performance review phrases for productivity

• Consistently exceeds productivity targets.
• Demonstrates excellent time management skills by delivering work on schedule.
• Strives for continuous improvement and finds innovative ways to enhance productivity.
• Takes on additional responsibilities without compromising the quality of work.
• Effectively prioritizes tasks and manages workload to maximize productivity.
• Demonstrates a strong focus on meeting deadlines, even in high-pressure situations.
• Proactively seeks opportunities to streamline processes and optimize workflow.
• Exhibits ability to multitask and maintain productivity across various projects.
• Tackles complex tasks in a resilient and timely manner.
• Inspires team members to enhance their own efficiency.
• Struggles to meet productivity targets, consistently falling behind schedule.
• Demonstrates poor time management skills, leading to missed deadlines and delays.
• Frequently fails to complete assigned tasks within the expected timeframe.
• Displays a lack of initiative in improving productivity or streamlining processes.
• Requires constant supervision to stay on track and meet productivity goals.
• Often overlooks important details, resulting in rework and reduced efficiency.
• Shows resistance to taking on additional responsibilities or tasks.
• Demonstrates a lack of focus and easily becomes distracted during work hours.
• Struggles to juggle multiple projects simultaneously.
• Frequently fails to prioritize tasks effectively, resulting in unfinished or delayed work.

Performance review phrases for initiative

• Consistently demonstrates a proactive approach to problem-solving.
• Shows a strong sense of ownership and accountability for their work.
• Actively seeks opportunities to take on additional responsibilities and contribute to projects outside their role.
• Takes the lead in implementing new ideas and innovations.
• Proactively identifies potential challenges and takes action to address them.
• Organizes team initiatives that improve efficiency and productivity.
• Demonstrates a willingness to learn new skills independently.
• Regularly volunteers for new projects and takes on challenging tasks.
• Displays enthusiasm and dedication when faced with new challenges or complex assignments.
• Acts as a role model for others by having a can-do attitude and motivating the team.
• Rarely takes the initiative to solve problems or address issues independently.
• Demonstrates a lack of proactivity in seeking out new opportunities or additional responsibilities.
• Struggles to show ownership of their work, often relying on others for direction.
• Shows little interest in contributing beyond their assigned tasks and responsibilities.
• Possesses a limited willingness to explore new ideas or approaches to improve efficiency.
• Displays resistance to change and is hesitant to adopt new ideas or approaches.
• Frequently requires close supervision and struggles to work independently.
• Demonstrates a passive attitude toward professional development and acquiring new skills.
• Fails to address potential challenges or obstacles, leading to avoidable issues.
• Often waits for instructions or direction from others instead of taking the initiative to lead.

Performance review phrases for accountability

• Demonstrates a strong sense of responsibility for their actions and outcomes.
• Takes ownership of mistakes and actively works to fix them promptly.
• Shows consistent reliability in meeting commitments and deadlines.
• Takes the initiative to communicate proactively when facing potential challenges.
• Holds themselves accountable for meeting performance targets and achieving goals.
• Accepts constructive feedback with an open mind and uses it to improve performance.
• Takes responsibility for the team’s success and actively contributes to its achievements.
• Showcases a high level of integrity and honesty in all professional interactions.
• Follows through on commitments, ensuring they keep all promises.
• Leads by example, inspiring others to take accountability for their actions and decisions.
• Demonstrates a lack of responsibility for their mistakes and tends to blame others instead.
• Struggles to meet commitments and frequently misses deadlines without a valid explanation.
• Shows a lack of ownership for their actions, often leaving tasks incomplete or unresolved.
• Avoids taking responsibility for errors or poor performance.
• Is frequently unresponsive or uncommunicative when facing challenges or setbacks.
• Demonstrates a lack of follow-through on commitments made to the team or stakeholders.
• Fails to accept constructive feedback or make necessary adjustments to improve performance.
• Avoids accountability, negatively impacting the team’s morale.
• Frequently shifts blame onto external factors rather than acknowledging personal contributions.
• Often overlooks the impact of their decisions on others, leading to unintended consequences.

Performance review phrases for growth

• Demonstrates a strong commitment to continuous learning and self-improvement.
• Shows enthusiasm for taking on new challenges.
• Actively seeks feedback and uses it constructively to enhance skills and performance.
• Embraces failures as learning opportunities and bounces back with resilience.
• Proactively engages in training and development opportunities to expand knowledge and expertise.
• Displays a strong desire to acquire new skills and take on additional responsibilities.
• Demonstrates adaptability and openness to change.
• Sets and achieves ambitious short- and long-term goals.
• Seeks out mentors or role models to support personal growth.
• Inspires others with their dedication to growth.
• Demonstrates resistance to change and is reluctant to embrace new ideas or approaches.
• Shows a lack of interest in seeking opportunities for professional development.
• Fails to take initiative in acquiring new skills or improving existing abilities.
• Displays a limited willingness to learn from feedback or take corrective action to enhance performance.
• Struggles to adapt to changing circumstances or demands within the organization.
• Demonstrates complacency in their current role, showing little ambition for advancement.
• Resists taking on new challenges or responsibilities outside of their comfort zone.
• Shows a lack of self-motivation to set and achieve meaningful goals.
• Sees failures as impossible obstacles rather than learning opportunities.
• Fails to take advantage of available resources and opportunities for personal and professional growth.

Performance review phrases for leadership

• Demonstrates strong leadership qualities by inspiring and motivating team members.
• Effectively communicates the organization’s vision and goals, setting the team up for success.
• Leads by example and sets high standards for professionalism and work ethic.
• Fosters a positive and collaborative team culture, encouraging open communication and feedback.
• Shows exceptional decision-making skills, considering diverse perspectives to make informed choices.
• Empowers team members by delegating responsibilities and trusting their abilities.
• Exhibits strong problem-solving skills, effectively addressing challenges and finding creative solutions.
• Provides constructive feedback and guidance to help team members improve their performance.
• Demonstrates effective conflict resolution and mediation skills to maintain a productive team environment.
• Inspires professional growth and development in team members through mentorship and coaching.
• Struggles to effectively communicate the organization’s vision and goals to the team.
• Demonstrates a lack of confidence in decision-making, leading to indecisiveness and delays.
• Fails to provide clear direction or set achievable objectives for the team.
• Exhibits poor communication skills, resulting in misunderstandings and misalignment among team members.
• Shows favoritism or bias towards certain team members, creating a divisive atmosphere.
• Displays a lack of accountability for mistakes or shortcomings, often blaming others for failures.
• Does not actively involve or seek input from team members when making important decisions.
• Struggles to handle conflicts within the team, leading to unresolved issues and tension.
• Exhibits a lack of empathy and understanding toward team members’ concerns and needs.
• Fails to recognize and appreciate the efforts and contributions of the team.

Performance review phrases for new employees

• Demonstrates a strong eagerness to learn and adapt to the company’s culture.
• Shows great enthusiasm for their role and responsibilities within the organization.
• Quickly grasps new concepts and is eager to apply their knowledge in practical situations.
• Proactively seeks feedback and guidance to improve performance.
• Establishes positive relationships with colleagues and fits well into the team dynamic.
• Takes ownership of tasks and responsibilities, delivering results with a positive attitude.
• Adapts well to changes and remains resilient in the face of challenges.
• Demonstrates a willingness to take on additional responsibilities and contribute beyond their role.
• Shows excellent collaboration skills and actively participates in team activities.
• Possesses a strong sense of initiative, finding opportunities to contribute to the organization’s success.
• Struggles to meet deadlines and frequently falls behind schedule.
• Demonstrates a lack of attention to detail, resulting in frequent errors and mistakes.
• Requires constant supervision and struggles to work independently.
• Displays a negative attitude that affects team morale and productivity.
• Fails to take responsibility for mistakes and tends to blame others.
• Shows resistance to feedback and is reluctant to make necessary improvements.
• Demonstrates poor time management skills and struggles to prioritize tasks effectively.
• Does not actively contribute to team discussions or participate in group activities.
• Exhibits a lack of motivation and enthusiasm for their role and responsibilities.
• Shows poor communication skills, leading to misunderstandings and miscommunication.

Performance review phrases for longtime employees

• Demonstrates deep knowledge and expertise in their role and the organization’s processes.
• Shows strong dedication and loyalty to the company, contributing to long-term organizational success.
• Consistently delivers high-quality work and maintains a strong work ethic.
• Serves as a valuable resource and mentor to newer employees, sharing knowledge and insights.
• Exhibits exceptional problem-solving skills and effectively handles complex challenges.
• Demonstrates adaptability and flexibility in response to organizational changes.
• Takes the initiative to improve processes and efficiency, drawing on years of experience.
• Builds strong working relationships across the organization, facilitating seamless collaboration.
• Consistently meets and exceeds performance goals, setting a positive example for others.
• Displays a long-term commitment to professional growth and development.
• Demonstrates resistance to change and struggles to adapt to new processes or technologies.
• Displays complacency in their role, showing a lack of initiative to take on new challenges.
• Has difficulty accepting feedback and tends to become defensive or dismissive.
• Shows a decline in performance compared to previous years.
• Fails to keep up with industry trends and best practices, resulting in outdated knowledge and skills.
• Exhibits resistance to collaboration and tends to work in isolation rather than as part of a team.
• Demonstrates a lack of flexibility and unwillingness to take on additional responsibilities.
• Has a negative attitude that impacts team morale and hinders productivity.
• Struggles to meet performance expectations and requires additional supervision.
• Shows a reluctance to mentor or support newer employees.

Writing performance reviews can be a daunting task. It is important to capture the essence of the employee’s performance while maintaining a positive attitude. These review phrases should help as a jumping-off point for managers and supervisors writing evaluations. Whether you are looking for positive reinforcement or “opportunities for improvement” phrases, this list should address your needs.

Depending on the context of the review, consider checking out our posts on having difficult conversations at work or the top job well done messages for your team.

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FAQ: Performance review phrases

Here are answers to common questions about performance review phrases.

What are performance review phrases?

Performance review phrases are short sentences that describe an employee’s workplace competence. These terms can either praise staff members for excelling or share information on where they have been falling short. Managers or employers can use these phrases while giving periodic reviews. Ultimately, these terms aim to help team members understand what behavior they should continue and what to work on.

What are some good performance review phrases?

The best performance review phrases are specific to each team member and their strengths and weaknesses.

Here are some examples of sentences that can help kickstart productive conversations:

Overall, it is important to tailor these terms to each employee.

How do you use performance review phrases?

When using performance review phrases, it is important to remember a few steps:

• Be empathetic : Getting a review can be a scary experience, even if the review is positive, so remember to approach the conversation gently. If the review is positive, then you can lighten the mood with some jokes at the start of the discussion. If the feedback is more negative, then you can ask the employee about their life and workload before getting into your comments. Using this tactic, you can understand what outside factors may contribute to the employee’s performance before addressing it.
• Provide specific examples : Offering feedback can be helpful, but it can feel hollow without specific examples. Staff members will be able to more easily identify what to improve or what to continue when you list detailed examples. For instance, if you are discussing how this team member helped their colleague understand a project, then you can bring a note from the colleague detailing their praise. Or, if you are reviewing an employee’s unclear writing style, then you can bring in a piece of their writing and show them how to make it more concise.
• Come prepared with solutions : Telling a staff member that their performance needs work will likely be upsetting. Especially if this employee believes that they have been working up to par, they may feel confused or blindsided by constructive criticism. Hence, it is essential to offer a detailed action plan to help the employee improve. For example, perhaps the staff member has been writing confusing emails. In this case, you could have this worker take a business writing course and install a grammar-checking program like Grammarly.

By keeping these steps in mind, your employee will leave the review feeling like a valued and respected team member. Additionally, this employee will be able to implement your comments in order to improve their performance.

Author: Grace He

People & Culture Director at teambuilding.com. Grace is the Director of People & Culture at teambuilding.com. She studied Industrial and Labor Relations at Cornell University, Information Science at East China Normal University and earned an MBA at Washington State University.

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People & Culture Director at teambuilding.com.

Grace is the Director of People & Culture at teambuilding.com. She studied Industrial and Labor Relations at Cornell University, Information Science at East China Normal University and earned an MBA at Washington State University.

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• Performance Review Phrases

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Performance Review Phrases for Problem Solving

Posted by Nancy Smart on Sunday, January 9, 2011 · Leave a Comment  

Whether you work as a clerk or as an executive, problem solving is part of any job.  It requires thinking on your feet and reacting to any given situation.  Some people can do this well, while others have difficulty doing this without guidance.

Some positive performance review phrases for Problem Solving might be:

Terry is able to successfully analyze a problem and find an accurate resolution

Terry clearly explains the problem and offers the users several different resolution options

Terry thinks through resolutions to problems before making a rash judgment

Terry keeps management apprised of ongoing problems or issues that are going on within the department

Terry is not afraid to respond to complex issues and provide recommendations to all levels of management

Some negative performance review phrases for Problem Solving might be:

Terry has difficulty coming up with resolution to difficult problems

Terry relies on others in heated situations

Terry loses his focus when problems arise

Terry fails to provide management with updates when problems are occurring in the department

Terry doesn’t learn from his mistakes and tends to repeat the same problems over

Problem Solving for some people comes easy for others it doesn’t.  To help employees work on their problem solving skills try role playing situations with them sometimes can help them learn how to react on their feet.    Work with them on various scenarios that could or might occur and see what their responses are and work through resolutions with them.   Also, have them try and follow these steps to work through the problem.

• Defining the problem.
• Generating alternatives.
• Evaluating and selecting alternatives.
• Implementing solutions

The next time they are faced with this problem, they will have already processed it through with you and be better prepared for the situation. For more Performance Review Phrases, return to the Core Competency Listings

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Problem Solving Performance Review Phrases Examples

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Initiative: 25 Performance Review Phrases Examples

By Status.net Editorial Team on July 22, 2023 — 3 minutes to read

Initiative is a valuable skill for employees in any organization. It means being proactive, taking charge of tasks or situations, and seeking solutions without waiting for instructions. Employees who demonstrate initiative often excel in their roles, contribute positively to their team’s success, and increase their potential for career advancement.

Questions to determine an employee’s performance rating for initiative:

1. Does the employee take on tasks without being asked? 2. Does the employee go above and beyond their job duties? 3. Does the employee come up with creative solutions to problems? 4. Does the employee take ownership of their work and responsibilities? 5. Does the employee take the initiative to learn new skills and improve their performance? 6. Does the employee take the initiative to provide feedback and suggestions for improvement?

Based on the answers to these questions, you can assign a rating. For example, if the employee consistently takes on tasks without being asked and comes up with creative solutions to problems, they may receive a high rating for initiative. Conversely, if the employee only does what is required of them and does not take the initiative to learn new skills or provide feedback, they may receive a lower rating. It’s important to provide specific examples and feedback to the employee to help them understand how they can improve.

Related: Best Performance Review Examples for 48 Key Skills

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Initiative Performance Review Phrases and Paragraphs Examples

5 – outstanding, example phrases.

• Consistently thinks ahead and proactively addresses potential issues
• Takes on challenging tasks and drives them to completion without prompting
• Demonstrates exceptional leadership skills in developing innovative solutions

Example Paragraph

“Jane consistently demonstrates an outstanding level of initiative. She is always thinking ahead to identify and address potential problems before they become critical. Her willingness to take on challenging tasks without being asked and her exceptional leadership skills when developing innovative solutions set her apart from her peers and contribute significantly to the team’s success.”

4 – Exceeds Expectations

• Frequently seeks additional responsibilities and opportunities to contribute
• Proactively identifies issues and develops solutions independently
• Demonstrates strong problem-solving skills and a commitment to continuous improvement

“Tom consistently exceeds expectations when it comes to initiative. He frequently seeks out additional responsibilities and opportunities to contribute to the team. His ability to proactively identify issues and develop solutions without waiting for direction demonstrates his strong problem-solving skills and commitment to continuous improvement.”

3 – Meets Expectations

• Regularly demonstrates initiative in taking on new tasks and responsibilities
• Works independently to resolve issues and complete projects
• Adapts to changing priorities and displays a positive attitude under pressure

“Sue meets expectations when demonstrating initiative. She regularly takes on new tasks and responsibilities without being asked and works independently to resolve any issues that may arise. Sue adapts well to changing priorities and maintains a positive attitude even under pressure.”

2 – Needs Improvement

• Occasionally takes initiative but may need guidance to complete tasks
• Can be proactive at times but struggles to maintain consistency
• Needs to demonstrate greater independence and problem-solving skills

“Bob’s initiative needs improvement. While he occasionally takes it upon himself to start new tasks, he often requires guidance to see them through to completion. He can be proactive at times, but struggles with consistency. Bob should work on developing his independence and problem-solving skills to boost his initiative.”

1 – Unacceptable

• Rarely shows initiative, often waiting for direction before taking action
• Demonstrates a lack of independence and problem-solving ability
• Frequently resists taking on new tasks or embraces change

“Mary’s initiative is unacceptable, as she rarely shows any drive to take charge of tasks or situations. She often waits for direction before taking action and consistently demonstrates a lack of independence and problem-solving ability. Mary also frequently resists taking on new tasks and has difficulty embracing change.”

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