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31 examples of problem solving performance review phrases

Jump to section

You're doing great

You should think of improving

Tips to improve

Use these practical examples of phrases, sample comments, and templates for your performance review , 360-degree feedback survey, or manager appraisal.

The following examples not only relate to problem-solving but also conflict management , effective solutions, selecting the best alternatives, decision making , problem identification, analyzing effectively, and generally becoming an effective problem-solving strategist. Start using effective performance review questions to help better guide your workforce's development. 

Problem solving appraisal comments: you're doing great

• You always maintain an effective dialogue with clients when they have technical problems. Being clear and articulate makes sure our customers' faults are attended to promptly.
• You constantly make sure to look beyond the obvious you never stop at the first answer. You’re really good at exploring alternatives. Well done!
• Keeping the supervisors and managers informed of status changes and requests is important. You’re really good at communicating the changes to the projects at all times. Keep it up!
• You stay cool and collected even when things aren’t going according to plan or up in the air. This is a great trait to possess. Well done!
• You’re excellent at giving an honest and logical analysis. Keep it up! Effectively diagnosing complex problems and reaching sustainable solutions is one of your strong points.
• Your ability to ability to make complex systems into simple ones is truly a unique skill to possess. Well done!
• You often identify practical solutions to every roadblock. You’re a real asset to the team! Great job.
• You always listen actively and attentively to make sure you understand what the exact problem is and you come up with solutions in an effective manner.
• You have an amazing ability to clearly explain options and solutions effectively and efficiently. Well done!
• When driving projects, you can shift to other areas comfortably and easily. making sure the project runs smoothly. Great job!

Problem solving performance review phrases: you should think of improving

• You always seem too overwhelmed when faced with multiple problems. Try to think of ways to make problems more manageable so that they can be solved in a timely and effective manner.
• Avoiding conflicts constantly with people is not a good idea as you will only build up personal frustration and nothing will be done to remedy the situation. Try to face people when there are problems and rectify problems when they occur.
• Don’t allow demanding customers to rattle your cage too much. If they become too demanding, take a step back, regulate your emotions , and try to make use of online support tools to help you rectify problems these tools can help a lot!
• It’s necessary that you learn from your past mistakes . You cannot keep making the same mistakes , as this is not beneficial to the company.
• You tend to ask the same questions over and over again. Try to listen more attentively or take notes when colleagues are answering!
• Providing multiple solutions in an indirect and creative approach will allow you to be more effective at problem-solving . if you struggle with this typically through viewing the problem in a new and unusual light.
• You fail to provide staff with the appropriate amount of structure and direction. They must know the direction you wish them to go in to achieve their goals .
• You need to be able to recognize repetitive trends to solve problems promptly.
• You tend to have problems troubleshooting even the most basic of questions. As a problem solver and customer support person, it’s imperative that you can answer these questions easily.
• Read through your training manual and make sure you fully understand it before attempting questions again.

Performance review tips to improve problem solving

• Try to complain less about problems and come up with solutions to the problems more often. Complaining is not beneficial to progression and innovation.
• As a problem solver, it’s important to be able to handle multiple priorities under short deadlines.
• You need to be able to effectively distinguish between the cause and the symptoms of problems to solve them in an efficient and timely manner.
• Try to anticipate problems in advance before they become major roadblocks down the road.
• Try to view obstacles as opportunities to learn and thrive at the challenge of solving the problem.
• Remember to prioritize problems according to their degree of urgency. It's important that you spend the majority of your time on urgent tasks over menial ones.
• When putting plans into place, stick to them and make sure they are completed.
• When solving problems, try to allocate appropriate levels of resources when undertaking new projects. It is important to become as efficient and as effective as possible.
• Try to learn to pace yourself when solving problems to avoid burnout . You’re a great asset to the team and we cannot afford to lose at this point.
• Meeting regularly with your staff to review results is vital to the problem-solving process.
• Staff that has regular check-ins understand what it is that is required of them, what they are currently achieving, and areas they may need to improve. Try to hold one-on-one meetings every week.

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Madeline Miles

Madeline is a writer, communicator, and storyteller who is passionate about using words to help drive positive change. She holds a bachelor's in English Creative Writing and Communication Studies and lives in Denver, Colorado. In her spare time, she's usually somewhere outside (preferably in the mountains) — and enjoys poetry and fiction.

How a performance review template improves the feedback process

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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 to Mitigate Recency Bias in Performance Reviews

RfH Insights: How Should HR Handle Performance Reviews in a Crisis?

People Success in Practice: Writing Great Review Questions and Forms

What Are Project-Based Reviews and Why Should You Use Them?

See 100 examples of honest feedback you can give direct reports during your next set of performance reviews.

If you clicked on this blog post, it may be that time of year again! Performance review season is upon us. While delivering feedback can feel stressful, performance reviews are necessary to help employees grow their strengths, improve their weaknesses, and work through roadblocks. 

If you’re struggling to prepare for your upcoming performance reviews, have no fear! We’ve developed 100 phrases you can use to give targeted feedback to your employees. Keep reading for inspiration and to see how you can use Fellow to make your performance reviews even better. 

• 100 effective performance review phrases

How to run effective performance reviews with Fellow

100 effective performance review phrases , problem-solving, communication.

• Active listening
• Time management

Performance

• Goal setting
• Can test solutions to new challenges in a calm but assertive way. 
• Is always up to tackling new problems with minimal guidance. 
• Brings new ideas to the table in light of new and complex challenges. 
• Can explain in detail how they came to an effective solution when problem-solving. 
• Can successfully persuade others with their solutions. 

Weaknesses:

• Does not solve problems efficiently. Takes a long time to develop appropriate solutions to everyday challenges. 
• Fails to explain the rationale behind [his/her/their] solution to a problem. 
• Becomes extremely stressed when things don’t go to plan. 
• Does not prioritize working on solutions to the team’s highest-priority issues. 
• Is unable to solve problems when under pressure or faced with a tight deadline. 

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• Adapts to new environments quickly and with ease. 
• Takes responsibility for mistakes and can implement solutions based on feedback [he/she/they] [is/are] given. 
• Asks questions on how to correctly complete tasks so fewer mistakes are made down the line. 
• Demonstrates a willingness to improve skill sets every day at work and has a can-do attitude. 
• Is highly coachable and accepts constructive feedback with grace. 
• Doesn’t seek coaching from supervisor or peers after receiving constructive feedback. 
• Becomes highly defensive when given negative feedback.
• Demonstrates a lack of awareness regarding [his/her/their] influence on peers.
• Gives others feedback that is unnecessarily harsh or critical. 
• Doesn’t ask for feedback following the completion of major work projects and events. 
• Asks great questions to gain clarity on complex topics. 
• Is effective at communicating creative new ideas to peers when the stakes are high. 
• Asks insightful questions to ensure [he/she/they] understand how to proceed with challenging tasks and projects. 
• Can express thoughts and concerns to others clearly and promptly. 
• Adapts well to digital forms of communication and keeps everyone in the loop when in-person meetings aren’t an option. 
• Fails to alert colleagues and supervisors when bad news arises. 
• Has trouble speaking up and communicating effectively in a group setting. 
• Regularly engages in off-topic conversations with colleagues during the workday. 
• Is not able to clearly communicate goals to peers. 
• Shares written communications that are often unclear and hard to understand. 
• Is always willing to make [himself/herself/themselves] available for others and willing to help peers complete their work. 
• Showcases humility regularly by sharing the achievements of projects with [his/her/their] team. 
• Gets along with everyone in the company, no matter their position or department. 
• Always motivates and encourages the right behavior when giving feedback to others. 
• Takes action to keep the team strong when times are stressful or conflict arises.  
• Can’t regulate emotions around others during times of high stress. 
• Tends to crave personal recognition and prioritize siloed tasks over group work. 
• Shuts down ideas from teammates who have different values. 
• Is not receptive to feedback from the team. 
• Doesn’t prioritize regular communication with teammates. 

Active listening 

• Listens with an open mind and demonstrates an appreciation for opposing viewpoints. 
• Helps create a healthy dialogue with teammates to drive the best solutions forward. 
• Is an active listener who makes others feel heard and understood. 
• Asks great follow-up questions that help others understand difficult topics. 
• Follows instructions with great care and attention to detail. 
• Interrupts colleagues without letting them finish speaking during meetings. 
• Dismisses ideas from others with whom they don’t agree. 
• Is often distracted by their tasks when they should be participating in meetings. 
• Asks basic questions that show they aren’t actively engaged in group conversations. 
• Regularly interjects themself into conversations that don’t involve them. 
• Arrives at each meeting prepared and ready to discuss work matters. 
• Always meets pre-determined deadlines.
• Is always on time to shifts and schedules off-time according to company policies. 
• Is reliable about arriving to work on time. 
• Respects others by completing group tasks by outlined deadlines. 
• Is frequently late to meetings. 
• Returns late from scheduled breaks.
• Often exceeds the maximum number of sick days and vacation days. 
• Doesn’t return emails or work-related messages in a timely manner. 
• Doesn’t meet attendance standards as outlined in the employee handbook. 
• Is a natural leader who is always willing to help others. 
• Recognizes teammates and other employees for a job well done. 
• Gives [his/her/their] team detailed positive and constructive feedback so they can improve. 
• Provides the team with structure and direction. 
• Balances being a mentor for teammates with [his/her/their] own day-to-day tasks. 
• Tends to overanalyze situations when a fast decision is required. 
• Doesn’t give recognition or positive feedback to teammates when they achieve their goals.
• Doesn’t treat colleagues as equals when working on group projects. 
• Speaks to teammates in a condescending tone. 
• Has a challenging time planning ahead. 

Time management 

• Works hard to meet all deadlines and regularly completes tasks ahead of schedule. 
• Respects the time of coworkers by showing up to meetings on time and prepared. 
• Can prioritize tasks to save time. 
• Keeps meetings and presentations on schedule. 
• Can effectively time-block [his/her/their] calendar to complete a task. 
• Frequently turns in work past the deadline.
• Is unreliable at completing tasks by a specified deadline. 
• Interrupts own workflow and the workflow of others by discussing non-work-related matters in the office. 
• Finds it challenging to balance multiple assignments and projects.
• Fails to prioritize projects and often works on non-urgent matters before urgent tasks. 
• Wants to improve at everything [he/she/they] [does/do] and asks for regular feedback from teammates and managers. 
• Is regularly a top performer among the team. 
• Has exceeded expectations on objectives set during last year’s performance review. 
• Communicates expectations to peers so everyone can work towards common goals. 
• Is always willing to assist teammates to help them be the best they can be. 
• Cannot communicate plans or objectives to teammates. 
• Lacks initiative and drive to improve [his/her/their] own skill set. 
• Did not meet performance goals discussed during the last performance review. 
• Does not often make significant contributions to the success of the team. 
• Does not take initiative unless prompted by manager or teammates. 

Goal setting 

• Communicates goals and a plan of action to achieve objectives with [his/her/their] peers and supervisor. 
• Sets SMART goals and develops an appropriate plan to reach these objectives. 
• Can develop goals for the team that are aligned with the organization’s mission and values. 
• Constantly strives to set and achieve bigger and better goals.
• Regularly shares progress on goals with [his/her/their] peers and supervisor. 
• Doesn’t frequently communicate the status of projects, leaving teammates out of the loop. 
• Is unwilling to claim responsibility when objectives aren’t reached by specified deadlines. 
• Sets too many out-of-reach goals and has a difficult time achieving them. 
• Is often distractible and unable to communicate the status of performance goals. 
• Has a difficult time delegating tasks to others that would help [him/her/them] achieve goals faster. 

Performance reviews don’t have to be daunting. With Fellow, you can build a strong feedback culture so everyone is prepared to give and receive praise and constructive criticism. 

Try our tool to prepare for your performance reviews ahead of time. Use our Performance Review Meeting Template to outline topics for discussion and a timeline for each meeting item. Share the agenda with individuals at least 24 hours in advance of their performance review so they have a chance to reflect on the topics and prepare for the conversation. Then, use Fellow to take notes in real time during the performance review, assign action items, and foster accountability with employees. 

For more inspiration, check out our blog post with step-by-step instructions on how to conduct an effective performance review . 

Parting advice

Performance reviews are an opportunity for managers to give feedback and let employees know how much they are valued by their colleagues and the organization. If you struggle with what to say during performance reviews, get started with our 100 effective performance review phrases. Better yet, pair these phrases with our easy-to-use meeting software to ensure your reviews are delightful! 

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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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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 
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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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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."

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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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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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240 Essential Performance Review Phrases

Paul Lopushinsky is the founder of Playficient . Playficient is an employee experience design consultancy that helps cut out the bull and focus on what really matters in the employee experience. Best place to reach Paul is on LinkedIn

Performance reviews are a precious opportunity to give feedback and coaching to improve the performance and engagement of your team member. Use these phrases as a jumping off point to help guide the conversation.

Performance reviews can be tricky to navigate for both the manager and employee. What you say, and how you say it, impacts a team member’s engagement and morale.

Performance review phrases in Human Resources (HR) serve as a foundational tool designed to facilitate clear, concise, and effective communication between managers and employees regarding job performance. These phrases are crafted to accurately reflect the individual's contributions, strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement.

Over the years, I’ve recognized performance appraisals as a chance for mutual constructive feedback. Performance management tools enhance this process, allowing for data-driven, specific feedback. This method clarifies achievements, motivates, and supports professional growth.

Using personalized feedback in reviews is crucial for effective communication and development, making appraisals more beneficial for all.

I’ve broken them down into the following key categories to focus on, with each divided into strengths and weaknesses. Use them as a starting point to get inspiration for your employee evaluation process:

• Communication
• Accountability
• Quality of Work
• Achievement
• Teamwork & Cooperation
• Training & Development
• Management Skills
• Productivity
• Dependability
• Taking Initiative
• Adaptability
• Process Improvement / Iteration
• Customer Service
• Professionalism
• Drive & Motivation
• Time Management

Use our compendium (don’t get to use that word often) of performance review example phrases to help you conduct an effective performance appraisal.

Example Phrases about Creative Problem Solving

• Displays the ability to come up with innovative solutions to complex problems.
• Applies creative thinking with creative solutions to specific tasks.
• Possesses interpersonal skills for solving problems with others.
• Is able to come up with multiple solutions when the opportunity arises.
• Is willing to think up creative ideas for not just their assigned tasks, but helping coworkers with challenges they’re tackling.
• Active participant in team meetings helping others work through problems.
• Shows hesitation in approaching complex problems with innovative solutions, could benefit from more creative risk-taking.
• Struggles to think outside the box when faced with challenging situations, leading to missed opportunities for innovation.
• Tends to rely on conventional methods rather than exploring new ideas or perspectives, which can limit problem-solving effectiveness.
• Has difficulty adapting to new problem-solving techniques, which can hinder team innovation efforts.
• Needs to develop a more proactive approach in seeking creative solutions to unforeseen challenges.

Example Phrases about Communication Skills

• Demonstrates strong communication skills with coworkers, managers, customers, and stakeholders.
• Demonstrates strong interpersonal skills while working with others.
• Provides constructive feedback to others.
• Can clearly articulate their thought processes in difficult situations.
• Is in constant communication with others regarding timelines and deliverables.
• Is able to deliver feedback to others in a concise manner.
• Can communicate clearly and calmly, even when handling difficult customers.
• Ensures questions and concerns are answered before working on a project.
• Can break down complex topics into simple, digestible explanations.
• Often misses key details in communication, leading to misunderstandings or incomplete tasks.
• Struggles with effectively expressing ideas clearly and concisely, impacting team alignment.
• Shows reluctance in actively listening to feedback or differing opinions, which can impede collaborative efforts.
• Has difficulty adapting communication style to different audiences, sometimes causing disengagement.
• Needs improvement in non-verbal communication cues, which can sometimes contradict verbal messages.

Example Phrases about Accountability

• Takes ownership and pride in their work.
• Takes ownership when something gets off track or mistakes are made.
• Shows a strong understanding of learning from their mistakes. 
• Gives credit to coworkers who helped them with a specific task or problem.
• Displays exceptional commitment to ethical standards, ensuring transparency and integrity in all actions
• Sometimes avoids taking responsibility for mistakes, hindering learning and growth opportunities.
• Has difficulty setting and meeting personal and team deadlines, affecting project timelines.
• Shows reluctance to provide updates on progress, leading to gaps in team communication.
• Can improve on proactively addressing issues before they escalate, ensuring smoother project execution.
• Needs to enhance follow-through on commitments to build trust and dependability within the team.

Example Phrases Related to Quality of Work

• Consistently delivers high-quality work in a timely manner.
• Seeks continuous feedback and constructive criticism to improve their job performance.
• Has demonstrated helping out a coworker or team with a problem to help deliver a quality end result.
• Is able to identify their weaknesses in their work and how to address them.
• Pays attention to detail and works hard to improve work quality.
• Develops sound strategies to achieve goals without sacrificing the quality of work.

Uncover the best goal-setting software for enhancing performance reviews with our comprehensive insights

• Work often requires revision due to attention to detail lacking, impacting project timelines.
• Inconsistency in delivering work that meets the established quality standards.
• Struggles with maintaining a high level of precision in tasks, leading to errors.
• Needs improvement in organizing and prioritizing work to enhance overall quality.
• Shows difficulty in applying feedback to improve work quality consistently.

Example Phrases about Achievement

• Include specific examples of tasks that said employee has achieved since the last performance review.
• Has met or exceeded set performance goals.
• Motivated by achievement and strives to break records.
• Demonstrates remarkable progress in achieving complex objectives, contributing significantly to team and organizational goals
• Has shown difficulty in meeting set targets within the designated timelines.
• Occasionally sets goals that are not aligned with team or organizational objectives, leading to misdirected efforts.
• Struggles with maintaining focus on long-term achievements, often getting sidetracked by immediate tasks.
• Needs to develop a more strategic approach to goal-setting and achievement to maximize impact.
• Demonstrates a lack of initiative in seeking out opportunities for personal or professional growth, hindering progress and advancement.

Example Phrases Related to Teamwork and Cooperation

• Demonstrates strong interpersonal skills when working to come up with solutions. 
• Is quick to welcome new employees to the org and assist with onboarding.
• Has demonstrated initiative in improving teamwork with their team.
• Can handle difficult conversations with team members and is considerate of the feelings of others.
• Operates cross-functionally and looks to forge strong working relationships across the org.
• Is punctual when attending meetings and respects other’s time.
• Upholds core values and seeks to improve company culture.
• Appreciates the distinct work style of team members and honors their set boundaries.
• Considers the interests of the team and works to help the team succeed.
• Is comfortable sharing ideas, resources, and techniques with team members. 
• Regularly receives positive feedback from other team members

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• Shows reluctance in sharing knowledge or resources with team members, hindering collective success.
• Has difficulty accepting and incorporating diverse perspectives, limiting team innovation.
• Struggles with effective collaboration, often working in isolation which affects team cohesion.
• Needs improvement in supporting team decisions, which can impact unity and progress towards shared goals.
• Demonstrates a tendency to dominate team discussions or decision-making processes, overshadowing input from other team members and diminishing collaboration.

Example Phrases about Training and development

• Seeks out training in order to achieve greater understanding to help achieve performance goals.
• Actively seeks out new projects and assignments with a view to learning new skills.
• Is able to absorb feedback through training and coaching to improve at their role.
• Helps others through coaching to help them achieve better job performance.
• Struggles to stay engaged with ongoing professional development opportunities, impacting skill advancement.
• Hesitates to seek out additional training that could enhance job performance and career growth.
• Shows limited interest in applying new skills or knowledge gained from training sessions to daily tasks.
• Has difficulty identifying personal development areas that could benefit from targeted training.
• Rarely takes initiative to mentor or share newly acquired skills with team members, missing opportunities for collective growth.

Example Phrases about Management Skills

• Demonstrates a strong level of leadership.
• Has an understanding of what their team is working on and can delegate effectively.
• Gives flexibility to their team in how they want to tackle problems.
• Does not micromanage employees' tasks and provides them the space to do their best work.
• Is quick to help out their team with any issues that arise
• Demonstrates strong communication skills with their team and their own manager(s).
• Helps keep their team engaged in their work.
• Provides constructive feedback and elicit valuable feedback from direct reports.
• Leads by example and takes initiative to lead projects.
• Willing to support juniors and coworkers to get them up to speed.
• Gets in touch with team members to understand a project’s progress and lends their expertise wherever required.
• Fosters team building and encourages learning and development.
• Ensures team members are comfortable asking questions and listens attentively to their queries before responding.
• Sets clear and measurable performance expectations.
• Facilitates open communication between team members and the wider organization.
• Fosters a positive, collaborative work environment.

Enhance team dynamics and performance through our reviewed selection of 360-degree feedback software , designed for impactful feedback.

• Challenges in effectively delegating tasks, leading to workload imbalances.
• Struggles with providing clear, constructive feedback to team members.
• Limited ability to motivate and inspire team towards common goals.
• Inconsistency in enforcing policies and procedures, affecting team discipline.
• Difficulty in managing team conflicts constructively, impacting team harmony.
• Shows hesitation in making decisive decisions, delaying project progress.
• Shows reluctance in adopting new management practices that could improve team efficiency.
• Needs improvement in strategic planning, affecting the team's ability to meet long-term objectives.
• Lacks consistency in following up on tasks, leading to issues with task completion and accountability.

Example Phrases about Productivity

• Demonstrates strong time management skills.
• Seeks to continuously improve in all areas of their work.
• Is able to complete their assigned tasks on time without sacrificing quality work.
• Is well-organized and formulates plans to use their time efficiently.
• Respects the time of coworkers and their project deadlines.
• Often misses deadlines, affecting overall project timelines.
• Struggles with prioritizing tasks, leading to inefficiencies in workflow.
• Frequently distracted by non-work-related issues, reducing focus on tasks.
• Limited use of productivity tools or techniques to streamline tasks.

Example Phrases related to Expertise

• Helps build out the team’s knowledge base by sharing their expertise.
• Explains subjects and tasks to coworkers in a way that they can easily understand.
• Has repeatedly demonstrated the ability to bring new solutions or a new outlook to prior problems.
• Keeps up to date with industry trends to ensure we’re leveraging the latest knowledge and ideas.
• Limited understanding of the latest industry trends and practices.
• Struggles to apply theoretical knowledge to practical work scenarios.
• Needs to enhance technical skills relevant to the job role.
• Shows difficulty in grasping complex concepts quickly.
• Lacks initiative in seeking out learning opportunities for professional growth.

Example Phrases about Dependability

• Can be trusted to complete tasks in a timely matter along with delivering quality work.
• Has demonstrated consistency with their work output, no matter the task or project.
• Has demonstrated that they are a reliable team member that others can go to and expect quality results from.
• Is always quick to follow up and answer correspondence.
• Is a loyal and valuable part of the team.
• Occasionally fails to meet deadlines, causing delays in project completion.
• Shows inconsistency in attendance or punctuality.
• Relies heavily on others to complete tasks, instead of taking ownership.
• Demonstrates difficulty in following through on commitments.
• Sometimes overlooks details critical to task completion, leading to errors or rework.

Example Phrases related to Taking Initiative

• Can work with minimal supervision.
• Shows initiative to seek out additional work or new tasks to tackle.
• Enthusiastically takes on new challenges outside their comfort zone.
• Has taken an entrepreneurial approach to providing new solutions to problems.
• Often waits for instructions rather than proactively identifying and addressing issues.
• Shows reluctance to volunteer for new projects or tasks outside of assigned responsibilities.
• Demonstrates hesitancy in proposing innovative ideas or solutions to challenges.
• Needs improvement in seizing opportunities for professional development and growth.
• Lacks initiative in seeking out ways to improve processes or enhance efficiency within the team or organization.

Example Phrases about Attitude

• Is willing to take on tasks outside their job description.
• Generally demonstrates a positive attitude towards work.
• Shows willingness to set goals and works hard to accomplish them.
• Approaches confrontation calmly and is willing to accept other’s point of view.
• Bounces back after failure with a positive mindset.
• Maintains a favorable approach to work and builds genuine relationships with team members.
• Doesn’t let difficult situations dampen their work ethic and can work well under pressure.
• Displays a negative attitude towards assigned tasks or colleagues, impacting team morale.
• Struggles to maintain a positive outlook during challenging situations, affecting team dynamics.
• Shows resistance to feedback or constructive criticism, hindering personal growth.
• Occasionally exhibits a lack of enthusiasm or motivation towards job responsibilities.
• Needs improvement in demonstrating a proactive and solution-oriented mindset in the workplace.

Example Phrases about Adaptability

• Can pivot between tasks and take on new assignments outside their remit.
• Receptive to trying new ideas and ways of working.
• Can handle shifting priorities and change focus quickly.
• Can admit when they’re wrong and are willing to learn from their mistakes.
• Is always calm in the face of adverse situations.
• Is happy to collaborate with other departments and take their advice and expertise into account whenever required.
• Is quick to adopt new technologies and HR software solutions .
• Has difficulty adjusting to changes in work processes or procedures.
• Shows resistance to new technologies or tools introduced in the workplace.
• Struggles to effectively navigate transitions in team dynamics or organizational structure.
• Demonstrates rigidity in mindset, making it challenging to embrace new ideas or perspectives.

Example Phrases about Attendance

• Reports to work on time every day and has a history of perfect attendance.
• Arrives early for meetings, seminars, and workshops.
• Meets the attendance policies of the organization without fail.
• Don't take leave without prior information.
• Reaches the workplace fully prepared for the day.
• Frequently arrives late to work or meetings without prior explanation.
• Shows inconsistency in adhering to scheduled breaks or lunch times.
• Demonstrates a pattern of unexcused absences, impacting team productivity.
• Struggles to maintain regular attendance due to personal reasons or external commitments.
• Tends to leave work early without prior authorization, disrupting workflow and impacting team productivity.

Example Phrases about Positivity / Fun

• Consistently maintains a positive and enthusiastic attitude.
• Actively contributes to a fun and inclusive team environment.
• Uses humor appropriately to enhance team spirit.
• Makes work enjoyable and engaging for others.
• Always encourages colleagues in a positive and uplifting manner.
• Occasionally overlooks opportunities to inject humor or light-heartedness into team interactions.
• Shows reluctance to participate in team-building activities or social events.
• Struggles to create a positive and enjoyable work environment for colleagues.
• Demonstrates a lack of creativity in organizing engaging and enjoyable activities for the team.
• Needs improvement in balancing fun with productivity, ensuring work objectives are still met effectively.

Example Phrases about Process Improvement / Iterations

• Continuously seeks ways to improve processes and outcome
• Actively seeks and incorporates feedback for betterment.
• Demonstrates a strong commitment to learning and growth.
• Quickly recovers and learns from setbacks.
• Consistently identifies inefficiencies and proposes innovative solutions for optimization.
• Tends to repeat the same mistakes without learning from past experiences.
• Struggles to adapt to changing circumstances or feedback, leading to stagnant progress.
• Demonstrates resistance to trying new approaches or methods, hindering innovation.
• Shows difficulty in accepting and incorporating diverse perspectives or ideas into iterative processes.
• Lacks consistency in seeking feedback and iterating on work or projects to improve outcomes.

Example Phrases about Planning

• Displays strong strategic planning abilities.
• Anticipates needs and plans accordingly.
• Pays close attention to details in planning.
• Can anticipate future trends and needs and incorporate them effectively into planning strategies.
• Excels in collaborating with team members and other departments, ensuring comprehensive and cohesive planning efforts.
• Often fails to develop comprehensive plans before starting projects, leading to disorganized execution.
• Struggles with prioritizing tasks effectively within planning frameworks, causing delays and missed deadlines.
• Shows inconsistency in reviewing and adjusting plans as needed, resulting in inefficient use of resources.

Example Phrases about Customer service 

• Consistently prioritizes customer satisfaction, resulting in positive feedback and repeat business.
• Shows outstanding problem-solving abilities to resolve customer issues efficiently and effectively.
• Exhibits a high level of empathy and understanding in dealing with customer concerns.
• Maintains a positive and helpful attitude, contributing to a pleasant customer experience.
• Pays close attention to customer needs and details, ensuring thorough and personalized service.
• Responds promptly and professionally to customer inquiries and requests
• Possesses extensive product knowledge, providing accurate and helpful information to customers.
• Demonstrates difficulty in empathizing with customer concerns or complaints, leading to dissatisfaction.
• Occasionally fails to follow up with customers promptly or adequately address their inquiries.
• Struggles to communicate effectively with customers, resulting in misunderstandings or frustration.
• Shows inconsistency in providing accurate information or solutions to customer queries.
• Needs improvement in handling difficult or irate customers calmly and professionally.
• Lacks initiative in proactively seeking feedback from customers to improve service quality.

Example Phrases about Professionalism

• Consistently upholds high ethical standards and demonstrates integrity in all aspects of work.
• Maintains a professional demeanor in all situations, setting a positive example for the team.
• Handles sensitive information and situations with discretion and professionalism.
• Strictly adheres to company policies and guidelines, promoting a culture of compliance and professionalism.
• Occasionally displays unprofessional behavior, such as inappropriate language or attire.
• Shows inconsistency in adhering to company policies and procedures, compromising professionalism.
• Demonstrates a lack of respect for colleagues or superiors, undermining a professional work environment.
• Struggles to maintain confidentiality or handle sensitive information with discretion, risking trust and integrity.

Example Phrases Related to Drive and motivation

• Shows exceptional self-motivation, consistently taking initiative and going above and beyond expectations.
• Demonstrates a strong focus on setting and achieving ambitious goals, driving positive outcomes for the team and organization.
• Exhibits persistence and determination in overcoming obstacles and challenges, maintaining momentum towards objectives.
• Displays a genuine passion for their work, inspiring others with their enthusiasm and commitment.
• Effectively motivates and energizes team members, fostering a high-performance work environment.
• Occasionally lacks enthusiasm or initiative in tackling challenging tasks or projects.
• Shows inconsistency in maintaining high levels of motivation over extended periods.
• Demonstrates reluctance to take on additional responsibilities or seek out opportunities for growth.
• Struggles to stay focused and engaged during periods of low interest or motivation, impacting productivity.

Example Phrases about Time management

Demonstrates exceptional ability to manage time efficiently, ensuring tasks are completed within deadlines.

Effectively prioritizes tasks, focusing on what is most important and impactful for timely completion.

Conducts meetings efficiently, respecting the time of all participants and ensuring productive use of allocated time.

Could benefit from more effective time management strategies to meet deadlines consistently.

• Often underestimates the time needed to complete tasks, leading to delays.
• Struggles to prioritize tasks effectively, resulting in inefficient use of time.
• Shows difficulty in adhering to deadlines, causing stress and rushed work.
• Demonstrates a tendency to get easily distracted, impacting focus and productivity.

How to write impactful performance review phrases

• Set Clear Goals : Start with the goals set at the review's outset, providing a clear focus.
• Use Real Examples : Specific examples add credibility and clarity, showing what works and what doesn’t.
• Balance Feedback : Highlight successes and pinpoint areas for growth, motivating employees towards improvement.
• Provide Actionable Steps : Offer clear, practical advice for development, including resources and goals.
• Encourage Dialogue : Make reviews a two-way conversation, valuing employee feedback .
• Check-in Regularly : Keep the momentum going with frequent updates and support.

Why it's important to give precise performance reviews

Precise performance reviews are essential for building a transparent, trustworthy workplace. Performance management aligns individual achievements with company goals, fostering a motivated, engaged team.

Remember, shoot for clear feedback that is concise in its delivery. This isn’t like the report cards you would get back in school which had those short little blurbs that didn’t really give much insight. Great feedback helps employees grow, boosting overall organizational health.

How to apply our performance review example phrases

To make performance review phrases genuinely impactful, here’s how to tailor them for a morale boost and constructive feedback:

• Make It Personal : Adapt phrases to fit the individual's specific achievements and growth areas. Show you recognize the employee's unique contributions and challenges.
• Emphasize Growth : Always link feedback to opportunities for development. Highlight how improvements can lead to personal and professional advancement.
• Stay Positive : Keep your tone uplifting. Begin with strengths, address improvements, and end on a high note to motivate and encourage.
• Be Clear and Objective : Use direct, specific examples to back up your points. Focus on behaviors and results, steering clear of personal judgments.
• Invite Dialogue : Ask for their input. This makes feedback feel more tailored and engages the employee in their development journey.
• Collaborate on Goals : Set clear, achievable goals together, ensuring they resonate with the employee's aspirations and the organization's objectives.
• Check In Regularly : Offer ongoing support and touch base often to discuss progress, showing your commitment to their growth.

Enhancing Feedback Quality Through Effective Employee Evaluations

If you’re still doing annual reviews, I strongly suggest you consider moving them to a more frequent basis, such as quarterly reviews . You’ll be able to deliver much more effective feedback with shorter timeframes and give less of a chance for things to fall in between the cracks. 

For further support on performance reviews and performance management, join the People Managing People Community , a supportive community of HR and business leaders sharing knowledge to help you grow in your career and make greater impact in your organization.

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Hr’s ultimate guide to employee assistance programs, the importance of adapting return to office strategies for dei.

Problem/Situation Analysis: 40 Useful Performance Feedback Phrases

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

Problem/Situation Analysis is the ability to solve problems and assess situations to know what kind of solution is required to calm it down.

Problem/Situation Analysis: Exceeds Expectations Phrases

• Asks oneself what the situation is, makes a list of issues within the situation, and defines why each one is a problem
• Brainstorms possible ways to resolve the issue at hand and writes down possible solutions even those that seem absurd
• Weighs both the positive and negative effects of the suggested solutions to the problem or situation at hand
• Looks for the solution that highlights the most positive effects as well as that, which produces the mildest consequences
• Concentrates on the solution that can lead one to achieve the set goals and anticipates possible challenges associated with this solution
• Defines own goals specifically and makes them as realistic and as attainable as possible
• Accepts that the problem already exists and puts more energy into solving it rather than in resisting it
• Gathers some good knowledge about the problem at hand in order to decrease the uncertain anxiety and fear that one would face when solving it
• Tries to look for solutions from other people who have faced the same situation, how they have solved it and the kind of challenges they have faced along the way
• Opens own mind to a solution that may work and tries it out instead of making snap judgments based on little experience and information

Problem/Situation Analysis: Meets Expectations Phrases

• Tries to break the problem down into smaller, manageable parts in order to decrease anxiety and think more clearly
• Finds a more positive side of the situation and focuses on it in order to reduce the situation's negative emotional impact
• Uses more positive or neutral words to describe the situation and avoids words that may make one feel frustrated about the situation
• Keeps own motivation up by rewarding oneself after successfully completing a phase of the problem
• Looks at the problem from different directions in order to identify the root cause rather than getting sidetracked by the symptom
• Prepares for the worst possible outcome and how to deal with it; tries something else when a solution one has implemented doesn't work
• Tries to form own goals in the sense of actions one can take to achieve the desired goals
• Keeps track of each solution in order to know what needs to be changed or whether the solution itself needs to be changed
• Takes full responsibility for mistakes made from solutions that one has implemented and refrains from blaming other people
• Sets a deadline for when a situation should be solved and a schedule for reporting in order to stay on track and know when one is falling apart

Problem/Situation Analysis: Needs Improvement Phrases

• Blames other people when one makes mistakes instead of taking responsibility for own actions
• Spends time complaining about the problem at hand instead of looking for solutions and prevention of such a problem in the future
• Does not take the time to create a plan that would help one stay on track when analyzing the situation at hand
• Faces the problem alone without involving other people's ideas and therefore ends up spending more time on the problem than expected
• Believes in perfection; spends time going through a problem over and over instead of trying out the available solutions and looking for changes afterward
• Does not care about checking the progress of the implemented solutions or suggesting changes
• Does not create time to do exercises that improve one's ability to think strategically and analytically
• Jumps into solving a problem without enough information and facts thus generates solutions that are half-baked
• Does not ask questions or look at the situation from different angles thus fails to understand it better
• Breaks down a problem into smaller ones but does not develop strategies to solve the problems

Problem/Situation Analysis: Self Evaluation Questions

• Describe a time when you solved a problem without all the necessary information about it in hand. How did you go about it and what was the outcome?
• How do you weigh the advantages and disadvantages of a solution before implementing it?
• Can you explain the steps you have taken to troubleshoot a problem? How effective have these steps been?
• What information do you research when analyzing a problem and how do you use it?
• Your manager wants to buy a program that will improve the customer service and asks you for a recommendation. How would you reply?
• Describe a time when you have anticipated a problem. What did you do about it?
• Describe the most difficult situation/problem you have ever solved. What steps did you take to diagnose it and what was the outcome?
• What factors have you considered when developing and evaluating solutions to a problem?
• What are some of the challenges that you have encountered when analyzing problems and how have you faced them?
• Describe a time when you have found a creative way to solve a problem. How did you feel?

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150 Performance Review Examples and Phrases for Giving Effective Feedback

A performance review is an opportunity for your employees to grow. Discover 150 employee performance review examples to help you give constructive feedback.

Table of Contents

Employee performance reviews are crucial for all businesses. They let managers or supervisors assess their staff members' work and offer them insightful, constructive, and honest employee feedback on their:

• Areas of improvement

Employee engagement is also largely dependent on performance reviews. Therefore, you should know the appropriate words or phrases or employee performance review examples to use during a performance evaluation.

Complicated and wordy messages can confuse both the reviewer and the reviewee and, thus, detract from clarity.

However, if you go about it appropriately, performance reviews can promote your employees' professional growth by reinforcing good habits, rectifying undesirable behaviors, and inspiring them to perform better.

Therefore, to help you comprehend better, we’ve curated a list of 150 performance review phrases. But before we go through the list, let's understand what a performance review is in brief.

What is a performance review?

Reviewing the performance of employees is a critical aspect of running a business. It helps to improve the efficiency and productivity of your employees. Effective performance reviews can also help employers accomplish the following:

• Adequately distribute raises or pay increases
• Assist team members in acquiring new skills
• Outline the goals and expectations of the company

Based on the business capacity and size and the goals of the assessments, each company's review procedure may vary in frequency and complexity. The performance review assessments can be carried out either yearly or quarterly.

150 Useful performance review phrases

Below is a list of 150 performance review phrases and examples that you can use based on the position, function, or personality of the employee in question:

1. Teamwork

Here are 9 positive examples of performance review phrases for teamwork:

• Willing to be counted on by their teammates and expect the same in return
• Develops strong relationships in a professional setting with coworkers, superiors, and other staff members
• Provides support to teammates on their tasks, even though they are not directly responsible for them or obliged to help
• Exemplifies a culture of collaboration on a daily basis
• Readily collaborates with their coworkers to accomplish the goal
• Exceptionally adept at motivating team members to bring out their best effort.
• Oversees the team's operations and delegates tasks to team members appropriately.
• Built a highly motivated team that collaborates to commence and finish the task on or before the deadline
• Always willing to assist teammates who are going through a tough time with their responsibilities

Here are 9 negative examples of performance review phrases for teamwork:

• Seems more concerned about achieving their targets than helping anyone who might require some assistance
• Struggles to acclimatize after transferring from a sector that is very autonomous to one that is team oriented
• Although an expert, they tend not to provide professional guidance or assistance to those who may need
• Struggles with completing assignments while collaborating with others
• Doesn't care enough to inspire team members to perform at their highest level while working

2. Attendance

Here are 7 positive examples of performance review phrases for being attentive :

• Replies to emails and attends calls of stakeholders on time
• Attend conferences, workshops, and seminars on time at all times
• Always arrive on time for work each day
• Completed X years of flawless attendance
• Consistently available even when their division's work schedule is unrelated to it
• Follows the schedule and plan as accurately as attainable
• Always shows up on time, sticks to the schedule, and takes lunch breaks as scheduled

Here are 6 negative examples of performance review phrases for being attentive:

• Attends far too many personal phone calls on a daily basis
• Routinely goes past their allotted lunch break, affecting their productivity
• Does not adhere to the attendance requirements set forth by the organization
• Shows up at work late on a regular basis
• Consistently exceeds the allotted number of leaves
• Must learn to arrive timely after scheduled leaves

3. Interpersonal skills

Here are 8 positive examples of performance review phrases for good interpersonal skills:

• Has strong interpersonal skills and needs little to no instruction in communicating well with others
• Possesses the ability to deal with sensitive circumstances promptly and efficiently
• Can hear and effectively comprehend verbal and nonverbal indications from coworkers
• Ensures that their teammates are comfortable with a decision made by a higher authority
• Is an excellent team player who enjoys working with others
• Possesses the ability to resolve team conflicts
• Has the capability to collaborate with colleagues to resolve conflict in a respectful manner
• Possesses the ability to communicate clearly with people from different cultures, places, etc.

Here are 5 negative examples of performance review phrases for good interpersonal skills:

• Refuses to take constructive criticism from coworkers that can help them grow in the corporate world
• Interacts with coworkers in an abrasive and unprofessional manner
• Refuses to take any initiative or incorporate constructive suggestions made by coworkers
• Reacts defensively to constructive criticism
• Appears uneasy when questioned during team meetings

4. Communication skills

Here are 7 positive examples of performance review phrases for good communication skills:

• Adept at efficiently conveying complex messages and decisions
• Routinely offers constructive criticism
• Communicates complex subjects to the rest of the team in a transparent and understandable manner
• Asks interesting and meaningful questions
• Not afraid to answer when confronted with a difficult question
• Is skilled at summarizing and conveying critical business decisions
• Is open to hearing other people's opinions

Here are 7 negative examples of performance review phrases for communication skills:

• Stands out from their colleagues for having excellent employee communication skills
• Repeatedly berates staff members
• Has difficulty interacting effectively in teams
• Instead of doing it themselves, ask other coworkers to convey bad news
• Does not adequately notify supervisors of progress updates
• Does not provide constructive feedback on new initiatives
• Regularly engages in awkward conversations and occasionally becomes territorial

5. Achievement

Here are 8 positive examples of performance review phrases for achievement:

• Sets realistic goals and actively works to meet them
• Surpassed the benchmark by X%, outperforming other team members
• Reduced the time it took to resolve complaints to 24 hours, which boosted customer retention by X%
• Employed effective SEO strategies and increased the site's organic traffic by X%
• Implemented a strategy that works well to optimize work processes
• Working cooperatively with a team was improved by X%
• Generated X% more revenues at the end of the last quarter compared to the previous one
• Used automation tools to save the organization $1 million

Here are 6 negative examples of performance review phrases for achievement:

• Last month's goal was missed by X%
• Would benefit from reviewing their own failures and successes each quarter
• Failure to meet commitments due to a lack of coordination
• Would prosper from defining career goals
• Finds it challenging to provide error-free work consistently
• Improved social media interaction is essential to boost organic traffic

6. Innovation and creativity

Here are 7 positive examples of performance review phrases for innovation and creativity:

• Frequently comes up with fresh, creative answers to handle difficult situations
• Thinks creatively and unconventionally
• Always encourage or assist teammates in coming up with innovative ideas
• Their creative capabilities are a valuable contribution to the company
• Has a strong imagination and routinely offers some of the most original ideas
• Uses creative thinking to carry out a vision for the business
• Consistently offers fresh ideas during meetings and when working on projects

Here are 7 negative examples of performance review phrases for innovation and creativity:

• Could provide alternative strategies for resolving problems
• Could take the initiative to work on new projects
• Their problem-solving methods are typically inflexible and conventional
• Prefers a traditional, cautious approach to problems rather than a creative one
• Could perform better in places that require innovative solutions
• Might use some creative thought
• Too reluctant to take chances on coming up with creative solutions
• Has a habit of rejecting projects that require creative thinking

7. Leadership

Here are 9 positive examples of performance review phrases for leadership:

• Encourages team members to put in a good effort
• Establishes a safe environment for team members to express their thoughts and perspectives
• Recognizes the capabilities of teammates and effectively assigns work
• Keeps team focused and engaged in work
• Expresses sincere appreciation for a job well carried out
• Actively hear what their coworkers are suggesting and respond appropriately to it
• Is an excellent role model for others to emulate
• Encourages the development of an understanding- and learning-centered corporate culture
• Always ready to lend a hand to a teammate

Here are 7 negative examples of performance review phrases for leadership:

• Ambiguous while deciding which objectives and tasks to accomplish
• Seldom acknowledges a successfully completed task with praise or positive feedback
• Regularly causes the team to fall behind with superfluous activities
• Rejects team members' opinions or suggestions
• Does not treat other staff members equally with respect
• Always overanalyzes situations when a speedy resolution is demanded

8. Attitude

Here are 7 positive examples of performance review phrases for attitude:

• Has a positive outlook that encourages their teammates to do better
• Always optimistic in every situation
• Quickly smiles and boosts morale in tense situations
• Always cheer up coworkers
• Does not allow difficult situations to dampen their spirit
• Always comes to work with a cheerful demeanor
• Keeps a persistent, optimistic attitude that motivates others
• Helps others have a positive attitude toward challenges by sharing ideas and thoughts that are constructive
• The way they behave shows how much they like their work
• Fosters a culture of trust among staff members

Here are 7 negative examples of performance review phrases for attitude:

• Has an attitude toward causing problems
• Gets upset easily and shows a pessimistic attitude
• Must learn to accept constructive feedback
• Gets easily distracted or provoked by non-work topics
• Behavior at work exhibits bipolar tendencies

9. Time management

Here are 9 positive examples of performance review phrases for time management:

• Has the capacity to finish tasks, particularly those with tight deadlines
• Shows an excellent capacity for coordinating several tasks and projects simultaneously
• Efficiently utilizes free time
• Effectively manages a variety of tasks and projects without requiring heavy supervision
• Is adept at handling multiple tasks quickly and with precision
• Manage their time quite well
• Consistently fulfills all goals on time
• Creates brief and time-saving presentations
• Schedules meetings on time

Here are 5 negative examples of performance review phrases for time management:

• Fails to meet deadlines despite being granted plenty of time to finish all assigned tasks
• Has trouble coordinating multiple tasks and initiatives
• Does not efficiently manage their work schedule time
• Lacks the ability to efficiently prioritize tasks
• Shows a tendency to let personal matters influence how well they function at work

10. Productivity

Here are 10 positive examples of performance review phrases for productivity:

• Consistently surpasses performance benchmarks
• Has incredibly high standards for productivity
• Have a track record of delivering work at a high caliber
• Constantly looking for ways to be more effective
• Encourages people to perform efficiently at work by maintaining a positive attitude
• Consistently goes above and beyond expectations and delivers the best result
• Significantly contributes to the business's ongoing expansion
• Places a high value on details, which is evident in their work
• Shares their understanding of market trends and best practices with the team to assist them in achieving better results
• Is a key contributor to the organization's success

Here are 5 negative examples of performance review phrases for productivity:

• Requires to pay greater attention to the intricacies before turning in a project
• Finishes the easier tasks first instead of prioritizing the urgent ones
• Doesn't accomplish their work in accordance with the required productivity standards
• Should engage in more training and development activities to advance their knowledge and abilities
• Work performance and productivity have been below par lately

11. Accountability

Here are 5 positive examples of performance review phrases for accountability:

• Accepts accountability for one's actions and contributions as a team member, as well as involvement in the organization's growth
• Respects deadlines and takes responsibility for them
• Acknowledges shortcomings and notifies colleagues when unable to uphold a commitment
• Takes accountability for the part they play in project management
• Unwilling to be complacent with errors and finds resolutions for them

Here are 3 negative examples of performance review phrases for accountability:

• Must accept responsibility for meeting deadlines
• Rejects responsibilities for fixing errors
• Fails to communicate effectively regarding delayed deliverables

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions about employee performance review:

1. What is an employee performance review?

A thorough evaluation of an employee's performance over a specific period is known as an employee performance review. Managers examine an employee's overall performance, point out their merits and shortcomings, provide feedback, and assist them in setting goals during a performance review.

2. What should a performance evaluation of an employee contain?

In the majority of employee assessments, regardless of industry, these capabilities are evaluated:

• Communication
• Problem-solving
• Time management
• Productivity

3 . What are some examples of good performance reviews for employees?

Examples of good performance reviews for employees are:

4. What are some of the areas of improvement for employees?

Some of the areas of improvement for employees are:

5. What are some examples of performance reviews concerning leadership?

Examples of performance reviews concerning leadership are:

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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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500+ Performance Review Phrases for 2023

Performance reviews.

Performance reviews are a regular and significant part of the appraisal process in any organization. Basic reviews that include generic performance evaluation do little to improve performance. Performance reviews should be unique and personalized towards every employee for this process to be truly effective. The company’s and team’s values must be incorporated into the list of competencies by the manager. However, the fact is that the capabilities for which they are appraised are similar to an extent, and these should be encapsulated in the employee evaluation phrases. An effective performance review is a balanced assessment of the strengths and areas of improvement conveyed by performance appraisal phrases. The key to this process is knowing the correct employee performance review phrases and using them effectively during the performance review to communicate your feedback to the individual. 

What is a performance review?

A performance review process is vital for assessing any employee’s performance as it helps them understand where they excel and where they require improvement. For this process to work, it must be aligned with the company’s vision and enable employees to work towards it. The challenge for any manager is to avoid using the exact performance appraisal phrases for more than one individual about the same competency. This may lead to team members assuming that performance reviews are broadly generic, with the same feedback communicated through evaluation phrases to everyone. Hence, it’s important for managers to consider each case differently and use specific and exact phrases for employee evaluation to keep the review process credible. 

How to create a performance review for an employee?

During the performance review, it’s not what you say but how you say it that makes all the difference. Managers need to prepare their feedback carefully and ensure that they don’t use overly harsh appraisal phrases. A structured approach to performance reviews can avoid awkward conversations, mixed messaging, and defensive reactions from employees. Any feedback or review will comprise positive and negative performance appraisal phrases. These elements must be mixed and matched as per the situation. ‘Needs improvement’ performance reviews or negative performance reviews are particularly difficult as it can be difficult to communicate criticism. However, using the relevant poor performance feedback phrase and sandwiching it between two positive statements can soften the blow. This can improve the chances of employees receiving the feedback positively and using it to make improvements.

Striking the right balance

Positive employee review phrases are easy and simple to communicate as everyone likes praise and encouragement about their performance and achievements. It’s important not to get carried away while lauding an employee, and one must temper praise. On the other hand, penning poor performance feedback may also appear simple, as failures are all too apparent and obvious. Yet communicating negative feedback is much more challenging and must be done truthfully but tactfully. It’s a tightrope that managers must walk, and finding the right balance requires choosing their performance evaluation phrases well and using the right tone and manner to communicate them. 

A balanced performance review should ideally include positive and negative performance feedback examples, with the positive part dominating the discussion. Honest discussions that are structured and planned carefully ensure that both the manager and employee are motivated to improve their performances and help the organization grow.

Using the right appraisal phrases in a performance review

Using simple and descriptive phrases can communicate your feedback effectively and accurately. While performance appraisals are largely universal and generic, using the correct employee evaluation phrases can make all the difference. In this article, we have consolidated 500+ positive & negative performance review phrases by skills that could be handy during employee evaluation. These phrases have been categorized and divided based on essential skills that an employee is expected to hone. We aim to provide an effective guide to managers to build well-rounded performance reviews while helping employees self-evaluate. 

Goal-setting

Good performance feedback phrases- examples

• Effectively sets goals and challenges self to become better
• Constantly works to be the best he/she possibly can be
• Sets concrete goals that can be measured
• Focuses on targets to achieve business objectives
• Communicates goals and objectives to colleagues
• Sets clear expectations from team members to achieve goals
• Sets goals that align with the company’s mission
• Proactively shares update and progress on goals
• Designs effective systems to streamline work processes

Poor performance feedback phrases- examples

• Inconsistent in defining goals and objectives
• Struggles to set goals that align with company objectives
• Sets unrealistic performance goals 
• Struggles to meet deadlines 
• Avoids communicating delay 
• Keeps team members in the dark about project status
• Resists delegation of responsibilities and work
• Unwilling to take responsibility for missed goals
• Easily distracted and lacks the focus to achieve performance goals
• Passes the buck for missing deadlines 
• Unable to set goals that match his/her talent or capabilities

Accountability

• Takes ownership for the company’s success 
• Assumes responsibility and contributes as a team member
• Accepts mistakes humbly
• Takes responsibility for meeting deadlines
• Owns his/her share of project management
• Always willing to share the extra workload 
• Offers assistance without needing to be asked
• Volunteers to take on new tasks
• Empathetic to the needs of team members
• Strives to create a positive work environment 
• Shows awareness of the external environment and its impact on the organization 
• Receives and accepts feedback positively

Poor performance feedback phrases – examples

• Reluctant to take ownership of meeting deadlines
• Avoids assuming responsibility for mistakes
• Unable to offer solutions 
• Evades communicating project delays
• Shirks responsibility and shifts blame onto others
• Defensive in the face of constructive criticism
• Doesn’t accept responsibility well
• Makes excuses for failure instead of admitting mistakes
• Looks for opportunities to blame processes and external factors

Attendance & Punctuality

Good performance feedback phrases – examples

• Always on time to work and punctual about attending meetings
• Prompt and on time to begin each workday
• Respects colleagues by arriving on time
• Adheres to schedules and plans 
• Never been a ‘no call, no show’ employee 
• Achieved perfect attendance 
• Motivates others to improve their attendance
• Adheres strictly to the attendance policy 
• Reports on time to fully tackle responsibilities
• Very reliable about being on time for external meetings
• Always calls ahead if he/she is going to be late
• Reaches office looking fresh and positive 
• Starts and ends meetings punctually
• Plans and books vacation time in advance and informs the team about it
• Prepared to put in extra hours to meet deadlines
• Ensures out-of-office auto-replies are activated when on vacation or traveling for work

Poor Performance Review Phrases- Examples

• Unable to meet company standards for attendance
• Failed to meet previous attendance goals 
• Frequently late to work
• Often returns late from vacation 
• Disrespects team members by arriving late to meetings
• Loses track of time when hosting meetings
• Indulges in frequent breaks than permitted
• Exhausts all sick leave days without any supporting documents
• Offers weak excuses for arriving late
• Usually, the first to leave the office before everyone else
• Ignores email meeting invitations
• Goes offline on communication channels while working from home without any information or notice
• Does not follow the company’s attendance policy
• Poor attendance impacts team members and work culture
• Unable to hold others to the organization’s attendance standards

Good Performance Review Phrases- Examples

• Displays a cheerful attitude at work
• Seeks the positive in every situation
• Diffuses team members’ stress during trying times
• Tries to get the better of difficult circumstances 
• Shows enthusiasm toward work
• Motivates team’s other members with a positive attitude
• Shows readiness to get to work
• Displays a smiling disposition
• Attitude reflects enjoyment of his/her job
• Builds a culture of trust and respect
• Handles pressure to meet deadlines well
• Gets upset and flustered easily
• Resists from accepting constructive criticism
• Allows non-work issues to rattle her/him
• Randomly switches from positive to negative attitude
• Lets stress and pressure to get the better of him/her
• Loses cool over minor issues
• His/her negative attitude impacts other team members
• Needs to bring poor attitude under control
• Talks negatively about other team members
• Displays a tendency to trigger problems among his coworkers
• Makes inflammatory comments 
• Uses inappropriate language
• The level of voice can be objectionable
• Always willing to help colleagues
• Makes team members feel comfortable in voicing their opinions and ideas
• Builds a free culture that promotes dialogue
• Delegates work on the basis of the strengths of team members 
• Keeps team engaged and on track
• Appreciates excellence exhibited by team members
• Motivates team members to excel
• Creates a culture of learning and understanding
• Actively listens and responds to what team members say
• Sets a positive example for others to follow
• Takes on additional responsibility for the team
• Constantly looks for ways to help the team
• Shows willingness to take calculated risks
• Encourages team members to embrace challenges 
• Provides constant coaching and guidance to team members
• Displays empathy to colleagues facing personal or professional challenges
• Sets achievable as well as ambitious targets
• Is considered the backbone of his/her team
• Provides conflict at times to prompt colleagues to work harder 
• Aligns the strategy of the organization with day-to-day tasks
• Sets a high benchmark for ethical behavior
• Reluctant to listen to the opinions of team members
• Does not inspire teammates to work hard
• Unable to plan for the future
• Shows bias towards certain colleagues
• Overanalyzes problems that require prompt thinking
• Lacks the ability to assign goals and activities
• Impatient with new team members 
• Fails to offer support to colleagues struggling with a task
• Rarely gives recognition for a job well done
• Displays a condescending attitude while speaking to coworkers 
• Unable to keep confidential information
• Frequently diverts team’s attention with insignificant tasks 
• Makes contrived and unnecessary suggestions 
• Sows seeds of discord between team members
• Appears physically distant from subordinates
• Unavailable to team members for extended periods
• Dominates meetings and suppresses team members’ ideas
• Cultivates an atmosphere of fear and apprehension
• Frequently communicates aggressively through reprimands
• Prioritizes own needs and career goals

Management Style

• Manages team to help them perform their tasks well
• Creates action plans and sets deadlines for each team member
• Displays professional attitude with employees 
• Regularly receives good feedback from team and managers
• Adept at managing difficult employees 
• Assesses abilities of team members and assigns tasks accordingly
• Delegates tasks and responsibilities effectively to appropriate team members 
• Supervises team’s work without micromanaging 
• Displays trust in subordinates
• Gives team members the freedom to make their own decisions 
• Designs strategies that provide opportunities for team members to grow 
• Is considered an advisor, friend, and guide by the team 
• Covers all aspects of a project when assigning tasks
• Accurately foresees the output of the team’s efforts 
• Manages time effectively
• Motivates team to deliver a high level of performance 
• Earns the respect of most or all team members 
• Unable to lead the team to meet targets
• Fails to resolve conflict among team members
• Lacks the foresight to identify problems that can cause conflicts
• Shows difficulty in making quick decisions under pressure
• Displays tardiness about meeting schedules
• Unable to manage difficult employees
• Lacks clarity to set team goals 
• Limits himself/herself to just task management
• Unable to set a broader vision for the team
• Seeks creative ways to solve problems and improve processes 
• Strives to be an idea generator 
• Finds innovative ways to accomplish tasks 
• Contributes new ideas to team project discussions and staff meetings
• Offers constructive suggestions to meet the company’s goals
• Helps evolve improvement ideas in staff meetings 
• Finds new and imaginative ways to overcome challenges
• Always seeking new ways to improve and deliver value
• Considered a champion of new ideas and approaches
• Embraces new opportunities and takes on challenges
• Meets a new challenge with an innovative solution
• Creatively implements the company’s vision 
• Reacts negatively when presented with a new problem or challenge 
• Unable to apply innovative thinking 
• Fails to offer new solutions at project discussions
• Shows resistance to coming up with creative ideas, even when prompted by supervisor 
• Unable to extract innovative ideas from employees to improve the company’s procedures and processes
• Shows recklessness by trying risky ideas 
• Rarely adds additional value to projects beyond basic requirements
• Unable to cope with more pressure or unexpected challenges
• Reluctant to adjust to new or unfamiliar tasks or circumstances

Communication

• Regularly offers constructive feedback
• Shows willingness to entertain other ideas
• Makes sure the team feels heard 
• Keeps all stakeholders updated about projects’ status
• Takes and shares notes regularly
• Asks insightful questions to understand and solve problems 
• Ensures questions are clarified before taking actions 
• Explains tough issues clearly and calmly to the team 
• Doesn’t hesitate to admit, “I don’t know.” 
• Takes time to understand what others are saying
• Effectively summarizes and communicates key business decisions
• Stands out for outstanding communication skills
• Persuades and convinces peers in challenging situations
• Actively hears and understands peers’ objections
• Demonstrates sincere appreciation for opposing viewpoints
• Makes new employees feel welcome
• Is considered a friendly communicator 
• Builds a rapport with every division in the company
• Acts as a calming force when the team is under pressure
• Facilitates conversations with team members that bring out new ideas and solutions
• Able to articulate complex, technical concepts in plain language
• Blames others for problems or setbacks
• Complains of lack of resources to complete tasks
• Fails to alert proper personnel about problems or crises
• Regularly engages in confrontations
• Speaks rudely to staff members regularly
• Has trouble communicating effectively in groups
• Makes coworkers deliver bad news instead of doing it himself/herself
• Intimidates team members when working on challenging projects
• Asks questions that show he/she is not actively listening 
• Easily distracted and doesn’t fully absorb other opinions
• Interrupts colleagues during team meetings and discussions
• Is dismissive of other ideas when opposed
• Rules out an opposing viewpoint
• Avoids tough conversations with team members’ superiors
• Gets defensive if questioned or criticized
• Fails to keep team members updated on important updates and developments
• Avoids follow-up after the task at hand is over
• Hesitates to seek help
• Displays “us” against “them” attitude when it comes to others within the company
• Written communication skills need improvement
• Displays poor email etiquette

Customer Service

• Works effectively with clients
• Shares strong rapport with those he/she interacts with
• Enjoys people-related aspects of the job
• Projects a friendly tone over the phone
• Gets consistently high marks on customer satisfaction surveys
• Consistently spearheads effective customer relations
• Deals easily with all types of customers
• Shows empathy toward customer issues
• Direct yet helpful in dealing with customer concerns
• Does not let a customer’s negative attitude get him/her down
• Tactfully helps customers overcome objections
• Shows care about the client’s comfort and convenience
• Goes above and beyond his/her job requirements to satisfy the customers
• Follows up with customers in a timely manner
• Makes extra effort to keep customers updated and informed
• Goes the extra mile to make a real difference in customer experience
• Handles difficult customers with grace
• Consistently receives negative comments from customers
• Appears disinterested in solving customers’ problems
• Does not manage customer expectations, especially in tough situations
• Passes challenging issues to others instead of tackling them head-on
• Misses opportunities to educate customers about other products or services
• Uses inappropriate language with colleagues or customers
• Frequently gets frustrated by clients who ask questions
• High average time per call 
• Speaks rudely or sarcastically when dealing with client challenges
• Effective on the phone, but does not handle face-to-face service well
• Shows a lack of enthusiasm for customer service training 

Coaching & Training

• Enthusiastically accepts coaching in various job duties 
• Applies learning from training to improve abilities
• Asks for more training when processes aren’t clear or understood
• Always willing to learn new processes
• Shows eagerness to learn new software and improve efficiency
• Encourages team members to join in the necessary training sessions
• Able to learn concepts quickly and implement them into his/her work
• Actively participates in specialized training sessions
• Does not get defensive when given negative feedback during training
• Shows self-awareness and willingness to improve in areas where he/she is lacking
• Recognizes scope for improvement, both personally and professionally
• Could benefit from seeking more training in various tasks
• Should ask more questions when not sure of expectations
• Reluctant to learn new processes 
• Unable to apply knowledge gained during training sessions to work
• Could improve adaptability to learning new software and procedures
• Seeks coaching only when an area of weakness is highlighted
• Demonstrates a lack of awareness regarding his/her deficiencies 

Adaptability

• Accepts constructive criticism 
• Constantly works towards improving performance
• Comes up with new solutions to common problems
• Shows willingness to change the way he/she works for the betterment of the team
• Takes the initiative to start a new task
• Capable of handling a variety of tasks
• Shows ability to identify new and more efficient methods
• Stays calm under pressure
• Considered a reassuring force within his/her peer group 
• Willing to admit when he/she is wrong
• Quick to adapt to alternate points of view
• Shows willingness to work extra hours in case of crises 
• Handles change well
• Tends to shy away from new activities 
• Does not excel at projects that require a degree of flexibility
• Gets agitated when original plan changes
• Shows a lack of interest in accepting new responsibilities
• Sticks to old methods even if a new approach is better
• Fails to offer new solutions 
• Unable to come up with creative ideas, even when prompted
• Tends to get overwhelmed by challenges 
• Doesn’t innovate when things don’t go according to plan
• Unwilling to admit he/she is wrong
• Does not accept constructive criticism well
• Resistant to trying new techniques or approaches
• Proven team player
• Encourages teammates to work together toward a common goal
• Offers assistance and advice to team members
• Promotes a team-centered workplace
• Sensitive and considerate of coworkers’ feelings
• Shares ideas and techniques with others
• Builds strong relationships within the team
• Always willing to cooperate with coworkers
• Takes on more work to help the team excel
• Seeks new ways to help the team
• Easy to work with, and encourages others to work together as a team 
• Displays loyalty and support for colleagues, even in the face of conflict 
• Supports group decisions even in case of a disagreement
• Fosters a cooperative atmosphere 
• Does not prioritize his/her personal goals over the team 
• Receptive to ideas from peers and willing to adapt his/her behaviors in response
• Always congratulates team members who do well
• Encourages and motivates even the most reluctant team members
• Considered a positive influence on all team members 
• Solves team conflicts in a calm and mature manner
• Collaborates well with colleagues, vendors, and external partners
• Promotes harmony to ensure colleagues work as a team to meet deadlines
• Always offers to help with tasks outside their role
• Needs to improve teamwork skills
• Does not consider the workplace as a team environment
• Prefers to work alone on projects
• Colleagues are hesitant to ask him/her for help
• Does not work well with others during group projects
• Blames others when problems arise 
• Insensitive to team members’ feelings
• It comes across as guarded and secretive
• Does not share well with others
• Considered a divisive element within the team
• Gets impatient with colleagues when they are slow or unable to finish tasks on time 
• Comes late to meetings
• Disrupts workflow for other workers 
• Takes credit for the work of others, even when it is not deserved 
• Does not share information with colleagues unless they ask for it directly
• Leaves early even if the rest of the team is working late
• Only considers own needs and happiness
• Unwilling to share credit with others for team assignments
• Publicly criticizes team members 
• Instigates arguments with others
• Appears too blunt in feedback
• More suitable to individual-focused work than the group-work environment

Commitment & Professionalism

• Displays excellent work ethic 
• Is considered an engaging personality
• Exhibits professional attitude even when under pressure
• Takes on challenges head-on
• Customers prefer to speak to this person 
• Self-motivated and strives to complete all tasks on time
• Strives for excellence in everything he/she does
• Is not engaged in illegal or unethical business practices
• Their energetic and creative attitude impacts team members positively
• Takes setbacks in his/her stride
• Polite and professional in dealing with colleagues as well as customers and vendors
• Cannot separate personal life from work
• Colleagues complain of poor hygiene habits
• Dresses too informally for the office environment
• Shows a lack of enthusiasm to improve performance
• Frequently arrives late at work
• Often attempts to leave the workplace early
• Unwilling to broaden skill sets 
• Disrespectful to leadership behind their backs
• Unwelcoming to new team members
• Fails to keep the workspace tidy
• Gets angry and emotional in stressful situations

Ethics & Integrity

• Highly organized and adept at prioritizing what is important
• Strives to keep commitments
• Truthful and honest in all dealings
• Never betrays the company’s core values and principles
• Demonstrates trustworthiness
• Never abuses any company resources for personal purposes
• Understands legal responsibility towards the company 
• Displays a strong sense of integrity that underscore all his/her dealings and interactions
• Always keeps promises
• Follows ethical business practices and company policies
• Respects confidentiality
• Avoids office gossip
• Takes frequent breaks if not being watched
• Makes excuses to leave work early
• Usually gossips and is untruthful about the company or team members
• Blames coworkers for his/her mistakes
• Speaks rudely to junior/senior team members
• Makes unkind personal remarks
• Untruthful to other members of the team
• Breaks company’s rules
• Allows personal biases to influence important business decisions
• Withholds important information to evade disciplinary action
• Violates company standards related to employee integrity
• Unethical behavior has cost the company customers and money or both

Technical Skills

• Shows a deep and thorough understanding of systems and processes 
• Understands the technical requirements of assignments thoroughly
• Adept at solving complicated technical issues 
• Displays exemplary technical knowhow 
• Resolves technical challenges and records guidelines for future 
• Able to grasp complex technical concepts 
• Goes the extra mile to ensure the technical problems are resolved within the time
• Keeps team members updated by creating documents, flowcharts, layouts, diagrams, charts, code comments, etc.
• Explains elaborate ideas and concepts in easy-to-understand ways
• Extremely reliable when the company is implementing new technology
• Unable to properly communicate with other members of the team about technical issues
• Needs to attend more training sessions 
• Must study harder to improve technical knowledge
• Finds it tough to learn new technology
• Needs to improve technical understanding required for the job
• Unable to translate theoretical knowledge into practical applications
• Provides temporary solutions that can lead to long-term problems
• Spends a considerable amount of time retrieving simple information 
• Lacks knowledge about the latest development tools, programming techniques, and computing equipment 
• Unable to understand and adapt to changing technology and instructions

Problem-solving

• Considers problems as challenges to be overcome
• Brings new ideas to the table when discussing problem-solving 
• Shows the ability to pressure test his/her own ideas calmly 
• Tries to get a buy in from others to adopt his/her solution
• Sets up a system for tracking problems and their solutions 
• Uses a variety of techniques to solve problems
• Willing to try new approaches or suggestions that may come from others 
• Invests extra time and effort to solve problems completely 
• Shows the ability to explain the rationale behind his/her solution to a problem 
• Demonstrates leadership skills when solving group problems
• Evaluates challenges from all angles before deciding on a way forward
• Willing to collaborate with peers to explore solutions to problems
• Resolves customer complaints professionally and promptly
• Makes well-thought-out decisions and sticks to them
• Takes full responsibility for any problems of assigned tasks
• Tackles problems in a creative and analytical way
• Stays calm even when required to resolve a problem under high pressure
• Articulates issues clearly and concisely to team members
• Retains objectivity while assessing situations and suggesting solutions
• Accommodates and listens to other people’s perspectives 
• Capable of independently solving complex problems
• Breaks a problem down to analyze it minutely 
• Collaborates well with others to find solutions to project challenges
• Offers multiple solutions to complex problems
• Makes sound and fact-based judgments
• Looks for different ways to resolve complex issues
• Demonstrates disinterest in pressure-testing ideas with others 
• Does not set up a system for tracking problems and their solutions 
• Fails to take action when a problem is raised 
• Resists explaining the rationale behind his/her solution to a problem 
• Does not optimize use of time when working on difficult problems 
• Does not offer efficient solutions 
• Unable to persuade others to agree to his/her solutions 
• Not receptive to other people’s ideas and opinions
• Unable to articulate problems in ways that others can understand
• Indecisive when it comes to coming up with solutions
• Rushes to make decisions without thinking things through
• Fails to monitor progress to ensure that they deliver the desired outcome
• Does not learn from previous successes or failures
• Gets flustered when facing a tough decision  
• Loses cool with team members when faced with a problem
• Unwilling to collaborate with others to discuss solutions 
• Fails to give team members the proper guidance and direction
• Deals with customer-related issues unprofessionally 
• Chooses complex and convoluted approaches to solving problems
• Often paralyzed and confused when facing tight deadlines 
• Struggles to find solutions for complex problems
• Tends to shy away than face an awkward problem
• Quickly loses focus when facing a difficult situation

Critical Thinking

• Uses sharp ideas and essential thinking ability to solve issues quickly
• Possesses strong reasoning and critical-thinking skills 
• Always thoroughly considers everything before submitting any idea
• Offers workable plans for each problem
• Exhibits sound judgment when evaluating multiple opportunities
• Arrives at reasonable conclusions based on information presented
• Chooses a fact-based approach over sentimental arguments when making decisions
• Balances prompt decision-making, with the ability to analyze every aspect of a problem
• Prioritizes urgent matters over those issues that can wait
• Sets out the best-case and worst-case scenarios to help decision-making
• Makes hasty decisions without considering all facts and information 
• Frequently struck by analysis paralysis when making a decision
• Makes big decisions without approval from concerned parties
• Inconsiderate of others’ opinions and suggestions 
• Fails to consider possible changes in circumstances when making decisions
• Rarely thinks decisions through
• Employs problem-solving techniques that end up complicating matters
• Jumps on the solution before properly analyzing the problem

Time Management

• Efficiently manages time to complete tasks
• Respects the time of colleagues
• Keeps presentations on schedule
• Regularly meets all deadlines
• Works hard to stay organized and on time
• Driven to complete tasks on time
• Reliable when it comes to time management
• Shows dependability to manage time well
• Prioritizes well to save time
• Displays sensitivity to the constraints of colleagues
• Handles multiple assignments and projects well 
• Able to juggle numerous tasks with speed and accuracy 
• Effectively prioritizes work to ensure critical assignments are managed well
• Manages his/her time in a highly effective manner 
• Completes assignments even with extended deadlines 
• Organizes time systematically to achieve goals
• Frequently misses deadlines
• Regularly late from break
• Unable to understand how much time a task will take
• Meetings and presentations tend to overrun the allotted time
• Indulges in small talk that takes up valuable time of others 
• Gives little or no importance to being on time
• Takes no steps to improve time-management techniques
• Is considered unreliable in finishing tasks by the allotted deadline
• Frequently exceeds mandatory due dates
• Does not meet deadlines, even when given ample time 
• Has difficulty balancing multiple assignments and projects 
• Fails to prioritize most critical assignments effectively 
• Allows personal issues to affect work performance
• Does not manage time well

Balanced Reviews Leading to Positive Outcomes

Effective performance reviews are imperative to optimize employee engagement and motivate them to provide their best performance. Any manager’s essential function is to recognize an individual’s efforts while politely but firmly addressing their weaknesses. 

Creating performance reviews is a continuous learning process that requires a fair amount of time and an element of trial and error. For any manager striking a delicate balance between appreciation and criticism can be a challenge. However, with this comprehensive and exhaustive list of employee performance review phrases based on essential skills, we hope your task will be simpler and easier.

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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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10 reasons why we still need performance reviews (and how to improve them)

10 ways to rethink performance reviews to have a conversation, not a checklist, that unlocks potential and fuels ambition.

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BY  Featured 9 minute read

Imagine a performance review that’s not a stressful hurdle, but a springboard for growth. A conversation, not a checklist, that unlocks potential and fuels ambition. Believe it or not, this isn’t a fantasy. 

By rethinking the traditional review process , companies can harness the power of performance reviews to create a win-win situation for both employees and employers. We’ve gathered insights from CEOs, founders, and other experts to explore constructive alternatives. Let’s explore how to transform this often-dreaded ritual into a positive force for progress.

Provide ongoing feedback

Performance reviews can lead to a toxic workplace if all leadership cares about is high performance at all costs. This situation can create implied competition among employees and lower team morale. Most people want to know that their work matters and that they are on the right track to achieve what is expected. 

Performance reviews can be constructive when they are ongoing conversations. Many managers only provide a review at the end of the year, while the conversation about performance should happen regularly during one-on-one meetings. It’s challenging for any employee to hit their target goals if they are not coached on how they are doing during the process. Avoiding performance conversations during regular check-ins is more common than people think. I’ve worked for four managers who would not provide feedback until the actual performance review at the end of the year. 

It wasn’t company policy, but their preferred method of working with employees. At the end of the year, you would never know what to expect from the conversation. I remember walking into those meetings concerned about the outcomes. It was tough to know if I had exceeded expectations because I didn’t receive feedback on my work and didn’t know if I was on the right track. 

Performance reviews should be an ongoing conversation during regular one-on-one meetings, and if you are not on the right track to hit your target goals, it’s best to know early rather than wait until the holiday season to receive that feedback. 

Knowing whether you are performing well helps you course-correct, understand expectations, and ensure you, your manager, and team members are on the same page. It can boost team morale and productivity. 

It also helps you understand if you are on the path to a promotion and what you can do to achieve that. People don’t deserve to work without knowing whether they are doing a good job. Ongoing feedback helps people learn and grow.

Ana Goehner , career strategist and well-being expert, Digital Butterfly Communications, LLC

Ensure equitable and inclusive feedback

Performance reviews can cause significant harm when the conditions under which they are conducted are not equitable and inclusive. Bias, lack of transparency, and inconsistent evaluation criteria can undermine the fairness of these reviews, leading to demotivation, dissatisfaction, and even attrition among employees. When performance reviews do not account for diverse perspectives and experiences, they risk marginalizing certain groups and perpetuating inequalities within the workplace. This not only harms individual careers but can also stifle innovation and collaboration, ultimately affecting the organization’s overall performance.

One effective tip for supporting inclusive and constructive performance reviews is to implement a structured feedback system that incorporates multiple perspectives. Encouraging peer reviews and 360-degree feedback ensures a more comprehensive and balanced assessment of an employee’s performance. This approach helps mitigate individual biases by providing a fuller picture of the employee’s contributions from various angles, fostering a culture of fairness and continuous improvement.

Vivian Acquah CDE , certified diversity executive, Amplify DEI

Provide two-way feedback

Creating a transparent and supportive environment turns performance reviews into catalysts for individual and organizational success. As an OD consultant, I guide organizations in implementing effective PMS that enhance performance and foster a positive work culture. By celebrating successes and continuously improving the process, performance reviews can become opportunities for growth rather than sources of stress.

Performance reviews often face criticism for fostering a toxic work culture. However, this negative sentiment usually arises from a lack of ongoing performance management and development focus. Shifting to regular check-ins and emphasizing growth can transform reviews into valuable tools. Clear, flexible goals aligned with company objectives, along with open, two-way feedback, foster trust and development. Training managers to provide balanced feedback and linking reviews to career growth ensures employees see their value.

Zil Pandya , consultant in organization development and strategic HR practices, NamanHR

Design for all-around growth

Performance reviews are a tool to further codify and reinforce the culture and behaviors you’re looking to achieve within a team or organization.

Ensure your process creates the foundational clarity for all members that is needed for them to be successful. This is much more than a simple goal-setting process and includes a concerted effort that includes: 

• Leadership’s ability to align their strategic and culture plans
• All people leaders can translate this vision within their diverse teams
• Individual involvement and co-design around how individual goals are created each year. (This also includes regular updates of job descriptions and “social contracts” to ensure people are clear and inspired by their role within the organization.)

Being a role model of cultural values should be a part of the definition of performance, and all members (including the CEO/executive team) should have clear shared definitions around what each value looks like in action and when someone is at risk of derailing that value. Coaching and growth opportunities should be aligned with a member’s ability to influence and demonstrate these values. 

Performance reviews are arbitrary pieces of documentation. What you should be focused on is creating a culture of feedback, candor, and safety for members to use their experience to grow and develop. This means ensuring all people managers/leaders have and are building capability in creating brave and safe spaces for their people and can effectively coach their people to performance and growth in a way that creates equitable opportunities for all.

Angela Howard , founder and CEO, Call for Culture

Provide training to have meaningful conversations

I get why traditional performance reviews have a bad rap—they often create anxiety rather than growth because they’re delivered untimely, wrongly, and by unqualified people. This is a harsh statement, but overwhelmingly true.

I’m currently working with an organization to reimagine their process, making it continuous and holistic. We’re implementing regular check-ins and 360-degree feedback, using technology to streamline and gather comprehensive insights from peers, subordinates, and colleagues. We’re also ensuring leaders are equipped to have meaningful conversations and deliver feedback through specialized training.

The focus is on providing actionable feedback that aligns personal growth with the organization’s goals. By making reviews timely and relevant, we turn them into moments of motivation and alignment, fostering a positive, growth-oriented culture. Embrace this approach to transform your performance reviews into powerful tools for both individual and organizational success.

Tara Furiani , CEO, Not the HR Lady

Build a culture of behavior-focused feedback

Performance reviews can contribute to a toxic work environment when implemented poorly, but companies can take steps to change the tone of performance conversations.

One of the most common challenges I see is that organizations struggle to build a culture of continuous feedback. Instead, it’s withheld until the annual or biannual performance review. This raises the temperature of conversations if employees haven’t developed the muscles for giving, receiving, and soliciting feedback.

Feedback is often unstructured, unspecific, or focused on personality traits. Bias creeps into the process, which holds marginalized employees back in their roles and threatens their sense of belonging.

Companies can avoid these pitfalls by teaching teams how to give behavior-focused feedback and normalizing the practice of doing it daily. When effective feedback is part of the culture, reviews can instead be an opportunity to celebrate wins and focus on growth goals.

Alex Lahmeyer , founder, DEI Consultant, and career advisor, Boundless Arc

Document touch-points throughout the year

Performance reviews have gotten a bad rap, but this is because they are rarely executed in a transparent, equitable, consistent, and constructive way. Expectations are unclear, goals become moving targets, and an employee’s advancement is almost always tied to the effectiveness of their direct manager.

Performance management should instead be an ongoing practice that encourages a two-way exchange of information that enables employees to be effective in their day-to-day work and positions managers to support their teams more effectively. This approach should be applied consistently across the organization with documented touch-points throughout the year. 

Managers should be held accountable for the growth and development of their teams, and individuals and teams should be held accountable for their results. By the time annual performance reviews come around, there shouldn’t be any surprises—for anyone.

If employees are equipped with the right information and support, performance reviews can stop contributing to a toxic work culture and instead become a powerful tool for unlocking people’s full potential.

Alex Suggs , cofounder and partner, Different

Innovate with team reviews and feedback journals

Four of our last seven guests have shared their frustrations with how we handle performance reviews, especially the traditional annual ones. This tells us that the criticism about traditional reviews being toxic might actually hold some weight. 

If ditching performance reviews altogether isn’t an option, we think the trick is in how they’re done: Managers need to be super transparent, make performance a year-round conversation, and tie reviews to the bigger business goals.

Our guests have also been testing out some cool, unconventional methods. For instance, David Hanrahan, the chief people officer at Flare, is trying out “team performance reviews” alongside the usual ones. He’s more into having a high-performing team rather than just a team of high-performers.

In an upcoming episode with Tracy Letzerich, VP of People at Wheel, she talks about how their managers keep “Feedback Journals” in their one-on-one docs with their direct reports. They give each other ongoing feedback to build that feedback muscle and avoid end-of-year surprises.

Stephen Huerta , cohost, The Modern People Leader Podcast

Improve with regular check-ins

I’m actually in the process of interviewing over 100 CHROs/CPOs at companies around the world for a new employee experience book. All of them say that their employees actually want annual performance reviews because there is value in knowing where you stand, in having a framework that everyone can adhere to, and in having a process everyone is familiar with. 

Even companies that once abandoned annual performance reviews are going back to them. However, what companies are realizing is that there is a better way to do them. Feedback is given regularly (instead of once a year) to employees in terms of performance, but once a year they do a comprehensive review, including compensation. This approach seems to work well for everyone. Don’t get rid of the annual performance review, just improve it.

Jacob Morgan , author, speaker, and futurist, TheFutureOrganization.com

Make feedback available to everyone

I recently ran a poll on LinkedIn asking if folks had ever had a performance review that contributed positively to their development. Fifty-four percent of respondents said no. This is shocking.

So, although I disagree with the statement that they do more harm than good, I believe the devil is in the details, and the comments show why.

It’s all about ensuring that managers are equipped to hold conversations focused on past performance and future development. They need to review clear metrics and work with the team members on development plans.

The problem comes through a lack of knowledge of the goals of the business, the person, and working in partnership.

When you have thoughtful and open conversations, as we do at The People Collective, it makes a huge difference. All our feedback is available to the whole team so the focus is on constructive feedback and growth.

Matthew Bradburn , founder, People Collective

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Problem Solving Performance Review Phrases Examples

Related Evaluation Phrases

Problem Solving Sample Phrases To Write A Performance Appraisal Feedback

5 Steps to Manage Employee Performance

What do you do when a team member doesn't improve.

Posted July 23, 2024 | Reviewed by Monica Vilhauer

• Meeting more frequently can be the first step to resolving stubborn performance issues.
• Most performance problems come down to one of three issues: ability, skill, or will.
• Staging a performance improvement intervention may be necessary.

What do you do when, despite your regular coaching sessions, a direct report fails to meet the performance standards, goals, and deadlines the two of you have agreed on?

As the manager, the number one rule is that you cannot let people off the hook. Allowing ongoing performance problems to flourish diminishes your credibility and undermines the rest of the team. Failing to deal with individual performance issues immediately and aggressively will lead to decreased performance for everyone, including you.

There are five steps you can take if an employee’s performance does not improve, despite your continued coaching efforts.

1. Intensify Your Hands-On Approach

Be even more hands on for a while, narrowing the circle of empowerment. Step up your schedule of coaching sessions by meeting every day or even twice a day if necessary. Set smaller goals with shorter deadlines, and spell out even more guidelines and parameters for every goal.

Do what you must during each coaching session to ensure that the direct report completely understands. Always ask the person to explain their understanding of your expectations and the performance standards, goals, deadlines, and guidelines. Be sure to write this down somewhere.

Provide more coaching, support, and guidance in between sessions. As you do this, pay close attention and gather as much information as you can.

2. Diagnose the Problem

If the first step does not result in improved performance, you must further diagnose it.

Nearly all performance problems fall into one or more of three categories:

If the problem is ability, then your direct report’s natural strengths are simply not well matched with the tasks of their current role. In such a case, your best option is to change the tasks and responsibilities that are a poor match. If you cannot do that, you may have to remove the person from your team.

If the problem is skill, then the direct report does not have sufficient training for some or all of the tasks and responsibilities in their current role. In such a case, you'll need to find the skill gaps and ensure the person immediately receives the training needed to do the job.

If the problem is will, then the direct report has a motivation issue that needs to be addressed. If the problem seems to be internal, know that you have no authority or ability to solve that problem as the person’s manager. However, most often when work is concerned, problems of motivation are external. In such a case, explore incentives and see whether there are any that will reengage the person.

3. Prepare for a Performance Improvement Intervention

Get ready to meet with the direct report and initiate a performance improvement intervention.

• First, review your notebook. Think about your previous meetings with this person. What patterns of poor performance have you already documented? What measures, if any, have you already taken to correct the problem?
• Second, clarify exactly what's wrong. For example, does this person consistently fail to meet deadlines or goals? Do they fail to correct mistakes you've already discussed? Put your finger on the specific problem area or areas. If there is more than one area of performance to be improved, you'll have to focus on one issue at a time.
• Third, identify specific examples of the problem area you've identified . To prepare a good case, you'll need to gather evidence: Gather pertinent details such as times, places, and projects where the employee failed to meet goals, make deadlines, and/or follow guidelines.
• Fourth, review your initial analysis of the problem. Decide if, with further thought, you would categorize the problem as one of ability, skill, or will.
• Fifth, consider action steps. Decide whether there are concrete action steps you are willing to take or go and ask the direct report to take.
• Sixth, before you proceed, consult an ally in Human Resources. Make sure you are following proper procedures before you have your intervention conversation with the direct report. You want to make sure you are dotting your “I's” and crossing your “T's.”

4. Conduct a Performance Intervention

In your meeting, you'll need to do the following:

• Remind the direct report that high performance is nonnegotiable. You'll need to confront the person in direct terms, stating that the failure to meet goals and deadlines is simply unacceptable.
• Identify the performance problem. Be as specific as you can, presenting the facts as you've documented them. Remember, you are evaluating the performance, not the person.
• Agree on a plan to improve the performance problem. Once you've reached agreement on the problem areas and their sources, discuss how the direct report and you can work together on those areas.
• Sign a performance plan. If you have put together a written performance improving plan, then you and your direct report should both sign it and each walk away from the meeting with a copy.

5. Be Aggressive About Follow Up

After the meeting, follow up aggressively and try to reverse the downward spiral. As the direct report demonstrates improved performance, reduce your intensity, enlarging the circle of empowerment a bit at a time, until you reach a comfortable level of engagement.

Bruce Tulgan, JD, is the founder and CEO of RainmakerThinking and the author of The Art of Being Indispensable at Work.

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Google DeepMind’s new AI systems can now solve complex math problems

AlphaProof and AlphaGeometry 2 are steps toward building systems that can reason, which could unlock exciting new capabilities.

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AI models can easily generate essays and other types of text. However, they’re nowhere near as good at solving math problems, which tend to involve logical reasoning—something that’s beyond the capabilities of most current AI systems.

But that may finally be changing. Google DeepMind says it has trained two specialized AI systems to solve complex math problems involving advanced reasoning. The systems—called AlphaProof and AlphaGeometry 2—worked together to successfully solve four out of six problems from this year’s International Mathematical Olympiad (IMO), a prestigious competition for high school students. They won the equivalent of a silver medal.

It’s the first time any AI system has ever achieved such a high success rate on these kinds of problems. “This is great progress in the field of machine learning and AI,” says Pushmeet Kohli, vice president of research at Google DeepMind, who worked on the project. “No such system has been developed until now which could solve problems at this success rate with this level of generality.” 

There are a few reasons math problems that involve advanced reasoning are difficult for AI systems to solve. These types of problems often require forming and drawing on abstractions. They also involve complex hierarchical planning, as well as setting subgoals, backtracking, and trying new paths. All these are challenging for AI. 

“It is often easier to train a model for mathematics if you have a way to check its answers (e.g., in a formal language), but there is comparatively less formal mathematics data online compared to free-form natural language (informal language),” says Katie Collins, an researcher at the University of Cambridge who specializes in math and AI but was not involved in the project. 

Bridging this gap was Google DeepMind’s goal in creating AlphaProof, a reinforcement-learning-based system that trains itself to prove mathematical statements in the formal programming language Lean. The key is a version of DeepMind’s Gemini AI that’s fine-tuned to automatically translate math problems phrased in natural, informal language into formal statements, which are easier for the AI to process. This created a large library of formal math problems with varying degrees of difficulty.

Automating the process of translating data into formal language is a big step forward for the math community, says Wenda Li, a lecturer in hybrid AI at the University of Edinburgh, who peer-reviewed the research but was not involved in the project. 

“We can have much greater confidence in the correctness of published results if they are able to formulate this proving system, and it can also become more collaborative,” he adds.

The Gemini model works alongside AlphaZero —the reinforcement-learning model that Google DeepMind trained to master games such as Go and chess—to prove or disprove millions of mathematical problems. The more problems it has successfully solved, the better AlphaProof has become at tackling problems of increasing complexity.

Although AlphaProof was trained to tackle problems across a wide range of mathematical topics, AlphaGeometry 2—an improved version of a system that Google DeepMind announced in January—was optimized to tackle problems relating to movements of objects and equations involving angles, ratios, and distances. Because it was trained on significantly more synthetic data than its predecessor, it was able to take on much more challenging geometry questions.

To test the systems’ capabilities, Google DeepMind researchers tasked them with solving the six problems given to humans competing in this year’s IMO and proving that the answers were correct. AlphaProof solved two algebra problems and one number theory problem, one of which was the competition’s hardest. AlphaGeometry 2 successfully solved a geometry question, but two questions on combinatorics (an area of math focused on counting and arranging objects) were left unsolved.   

“Generally, AlphaProof performs much better on algebra and number theory than combinatorics,” says Alex Davies, a research engineer on the AlphaProof team. “We are still working to understand why this is, which will hopefully lead us to improve the system.”

Two renowned mathematicians, Tim Gowers and Joseph Myers, checked the systems’ submissions. They awarded each of their four correct answers full marks (seven out of seven), giving the systems a total of 28 points out of a maximum of 42. A human participant earning this score would be awarded a silver medal and just miss out on gold, the threshold for which starts at 29 points. 

This is the first time any AI system has been able to achieve a medal-level performance on IMO questions. “As a mathematician, I find it very impressive, and a significant jump from what was previously possible,” Gowers said during a press conference. 

Myers agreed that the systems’ math answers represent a substantial advance over what AI could previously achieve. “It will be interesting to see how things scale and whether they can be made faster, and whether it can extend to other sorts of mathematics,” he said.

Creating AI systems that can solve more challenging mathematics problems could pave the way for exciting human-AI collaborations, helping mathematicians to both solve and invent new kinds of problems, says Collins. This in turn could help us learn more about how we humans tackle math.

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The most common moto g stylus 5g problems and how to solve them.

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The Moto G Stylus 5G offers a stylus on a budget, an improved camera system, and good battery life. However, the affordable phone may have a few performance issues and bugs. It doesn't help that the device only gets one year of Android updates. This guide lists common problems with the Moto G Stylus and shows how to solve them.

What is Motorola Ready For?

Motorola wants your phone to replicate a full-fledged PC, gaming console, and smart TV

Try these simple fixes first

Before using other troubleshooting methods, try these fixes to solve common issues.

Restart your Moto G Stylus

You can reboot the Moto G Stylus 5G if it is not responsive. Ensure the device has a minimum charge of 5%. It may not restart otherwise. Press and hold the power button to reboot the phone for 10 to 20 seconds.

Make sure your phone has the latest updates

The Moto G Stylus gets regular software updates over the air. Here's how to check if your phone has the latest version:

• Open Settings .
• Select System updates .
• Tap Check for updates .
• If an update is available, follow the on-screen instructions to install it.

Common issues with the Moto G Stylus and how to fix them

If restarting your phone and installing the latest software update doesn't resolve the problem, try the following fixes.

Moto G Stylus battery issues

If your phone's battery drains faster than usual, check if rogue apps running in the background are sapping the battery. Choose the app you want to stop from the phone's settings.

• Open Settings
• Tap Battery .
• Choose Battery usage .
• Select an app.
• There are three choices under the section Manage battery usage .

• Select Optimized for a less restrictive experience. It limits background activity depending on your app usage.

Recalibrate the battery if your phone has issues like slow charging speed, rapid battery discharge, or erratic power off.

• Reboot the phone by pressing the power button.
• Plug the device into the charger.
• Charge the phone to 100%.
• Leave it connected to the charger for an additional hour.

Moto G Stylus performance issues

Clear the app cache if the Moto G Stylus has issues like apps lagging or freezing. Doing so can improve performance by freeing up phone memory and removing corrupt cached files.

• Go to Settings .
• Select See all apps .
• Choose an app.
• Select Storage & cache .
• Tap Clear cache .

Uninstall and reinstall the app if the problem persists.

Moto G Stylus sound not working

First, check the ring volume if you can't hear notifications and other sounds on the Moto G Stylus.

• Select Sound & vibration .
• Drag the slider under Ring volume to change it.
• You can also modify other volume settings.

If there's an issue with the mic, go to Device Help > Device diagnosis > Microphone and follow the instructions on the screen. To troubleshoot problems with the speaker, navigate to Device Help > Device diagnosis > Hardware test > Speaker and follow the instructions.

Not receiving notifications on the Moto G Stylus

Check if Do Not Disturb is on if you don't get app notifications. You'll see the icon on the status bar if it is active. Turn it off to receive notifications.

Another reason for delayed notifications could be restricting the battery usage for apps. Here's how to remove the restriction:

• Select Apps .
• Tap See all apps .
• Choose the app.
• Tap App battery usage .
• Choose Unrestricted .

Do you need a new phone battery? Here are 5 ways to find out

Don't ignore these poor battery health symptoms

How to perform a factory reset on the Moto G Stylus

Sometimes, a software update could lead to performance issues. If these methods don't fix the problem, performing a factory reset is your last resort. Ensure you back up the data and files you want to save.

• Tap System .
• Select Reset options .
• Choose Erase all data (factory reset) .

Here's how to factory reset your phone if you can't access Settings. Ensure your phone has a minimum charge of 30%.

• Turn off the phone.
• Press the volume down and power buttons simultaneously until the phone switches on.
• Press the volume down button until Recovery mode appears.
• Press the power button.
• Use the volume button to navigate to Wipe data/factory reset .
• Go to Factory data reset using the volume button.
• Select it using the power button.
• Navigate to Reboot system now after the reset is complete.
• Press the power button to select.

How to reboot the Moto G Stylus in safe mode

If the Moto G Stylus has significant performance issues, reboot it in safe mode. An app could be the culprit if the problem doesn't persist in safe mode. If you think some apps are causing your phone to malfunction, uninstall recent apps. Test one application at a time.

• Press the power and volume up buttons.
• Select Power off .
• You'll see a Reboot to safe mode pop-up.
• Launch apps one by one to check which application is causing the problem.
• To exit safe mode, restart the phone.

Get the Moto G Stylus up and running

Try these troubleshooting methods to identify and resolve common problems with the Moto G Stylus. You can quickly fix misbehaving apps by clearing the app cache . We also have a few tips to speed up your old phone. But if none of these methods help you fix issues with your phone, contact Motorola support .

Moto G Stylus 5G (2024)

If you're in the market for a phone with a stylus and you don't want to break the bank, the Moto G Stylus 5G (2024) is going to be hard to beat. With an upgraded 120Hz OLED screen and up to 16GB of RAM paired with as much as 256GB of storage, it's got the specs slider maxed out at its $400 price point.

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

2000+ Performance Review Phrases: The Complete List (Performance Feedback Examples)

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.”

• Productivity: 25 Performance Review Phrases Examples
• Listening Skills: 25 Performance Review Phrases Examples
• Supervision Skills: 25 Performance Review Phrases Examples
• Problem Solving Skills: 25 Performance Review Phrases Examples
• Training Ability: 25 Performance Review Phrases Examples
• Attendance: 25 Performance Review Phrases Examples

Helping our customers through the CrowdStrike outage

Jul 20, 2024 | David Weston - Vice President, Enterprise and OS Security

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On July 18, CrowdStrike, an independent cybersecurity company, released a software update that began impacting IT systems globally. Although this was not a Microsoft incident, given it impacts our ecosystem, we want to provide an update on the steps we’ve taken with CrowdStrike and others to remediate and support our customers.  

Since this event began, we’ve maintained ongoing communication with our customers, CrowdStrike and external developers to collect information and expedite solutions. We recognize the disruption this problem has caused for businesses and in the daily routines of many individuals. Our focus is providing customers with technical guidance and support to safely bring disrupted systems back online. Steps taken have included:  

• Engaging with CrowdStrike to automate their work on developing a solution.   CrowdStrike has recommended a workaround to address this issue and has also issued a public statement. Instructions to remedy the situation on Windows endpoints were posted on the Windows Message Center .   
• Deploying hundreds of Microsoft engineers and experts to work directly with customers to restore services.   
• Collaborating with other cloud providers and stakeholders, including Google Cloud Platform (GCP) and Amazon Web Services (AWS), to share awareness on the state of impact we are each seeing across the industry and inform ongoing conversations with CrowdStrike and customers.  
• Quickly posting manual remediation documentation and scripts found here .
• Keeping customers informed of the latest status on the incident through the Azure Status Dashboard here .  

We’re working around the clock and providing ongoing updates and support. Additionally, CrowdStrike has helped us develop a scalable solution that will help Microsoft’s Azure infrastructure accelerate a fix for CrowdStrike’s faulty update. We have also worked with both AWS and GCP to collaborate on the most effective approaches.    

While software updates may occasionally cause disturbances, significant incidents like the CrowdStrike event are infrequent. We currently estimate that CrowdStrike’s update affected 8.5 million Windows devices, or less than one percent of all Windows machines. While the percentage was small, the broad economic and societal impacts reflect the use of CrowdStrike by enterprises that run many critical services.  

This incident demonstrates the interconnected nature of our broad ecosystem — global cloud providers, software platforms, security vendors and other software vendors, and customers. It’s also a reminder of how important it is for all of us across the tech ecosystem to prioritize operating with safe deployment and disaster recovery using the mechanisms that exist. As we’ve seen over the last two days, we learn, recover and move forward most effectively when we collaborate and work together. We appreciate the cooperation and collaboration of our entire sector, and we will continue to update with learnings and next steps.  

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