Performance Review Templates: Complete Guide for Managers and HR
Why Good Performance Reviews Matter
Poorly structured appraisals create legal risk, damage morale, and miss the chance to develop your team. A well-designed review process directly correlates with retention — employees who have clear feedback are 3.5x more likely to stay.
Annual Performance Review Template
Section 1: Achievements Against Objectives
List each objective set at the start of the year. Rate achievement (1-5). Include specific examples.
Section 2: Core Competencies
Assess against behavioural competencies relevant to the role:
- Communication and stakeholder management
- Problem-solving and decision-making
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Adherence to policies and procedures
- Continuous improvement mindset
Section 3: Overall Performance Rating
- Exceeds expectations
- Meets expectations
- Partially meets expectations
- Does not meet expectations
Section 4: Development Plan
3-5 specific development goals for the coming year. Each should be SMART: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound.
Section 5: Employee Comments
Always include space for the employee's own views. This is both best practice and important for legal defensibility.
Probation Review Template
For probation assessments (typically at 1 month, 3 months, and end of probation):
- Attendance and punctuality record
- Progress against training plan
- Relationship with team and clients
- Adherence to company standards
- Decision: pass probation / extend / terminate
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