How to conduct meaningful employee performance reviews

A good employee performance evaluation involves thorough preparation, clear communication, and a focus on the employee’s strengths and areas that need improvement. The review should be a two-way conversation, with constructive feedback and actionable goals for the future. Preparation for the review and evaluation of the employee takes time and effort, but the outcome will result in an improved and more production work force.

Preparation is key

Being well-prepared is the most important thing you can do to ensure an effective performance review. Before the evaluation, you should:

• Review the employee’s past performance evaluations, notes from one-on-one meetings, and any performance data metrics;
• Reexamine the applicable job description to ensure the evaluation aligns with the employee’s current job duties, responsibilities, and expectations;
• Gather feedback and input from multiple sources, such as from the employee’s direct reports and others, to gain a comprehensive perspective of the work performed;
• Document instances where the employee excelled and areas where improvement is needed; and
• Schedule time for the review well in advance and ensure a private, distraction-free environment.

During the evaluation

When you meet with your employee, you set the tone. Here are some tips to help make it an effective review: