Performance review template
A comprehensive template for conducting structured employee performance reviews. Assess goal achievement, competencies, and behaviours while setting clear objectives for continued development.
Performance review template
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Why regular performance reviews matter
Regular performance reviews provide a formal opportunity to recognise achievements, address challenges, and align employee goals with business objectives. They're essential for employee development and retention.
Structured reviews also create documentation of performance over time, which is crucial if you later need to address underperformance or make promotion decisions. Consistency and fairness in the review process protect both employees and employers.
This template ensures all relevant aspects of performance are covered, making reviews more productive and less stressful for both managers and employees.
Key features of this template
Designed for thorough, fair and constructive performance reviews
Structured format
Clear sections covering all aspects of employee performance.
Goal assessment
Space to review progress against objectives set in previous period.
Skills evaluation
Rate competencies and technical skills relevant to the role.
Behavioural criteria
Assess soft skills like teamwork, communication and initiative.
Performance rating scale
Consistent rating system for fair, objective evaluation.
Development planning
Set goals and development activities for the next review period.
What's included in this template
Comprehensive sections for complete performance evaluation
Employee information
Name, position, department, review period and manager details.
Key responsibilities
Summary of the role's primary duties and accountabilities.
Goal achievement
Review of objectives set in the previous period and outcomes delivered.
Performance metrics
Quantifiable results like KPIs, targets, quality standards and productivity.
Core competencies
Assessment of skills such as problem-solving, communication and technical ability.
Behavioural attributes
Evaluation of teamwork, initiative, reliability and workplace conduct.
Strengths and achievements
Highlight areas of excellent performance and notable contributions.
Areas for development
Constructive feedback on skills or behaviours to improve.
Goals for next period
SMART objectives to work towards before the next review.
Overall rating and signatures
Final performance rating, employee comments and sign-off by both parties.
How to conduct effective performance reviews
Best practices for meaningful performance conversations
Prepare thoroughly
Both manager and employee should prepare in advance. Review previous goals, gather specific examples of achievements and challenges, and consider what support or resources are needed for continued success.
Employees should also be invited to complete a self-assessment using the same template, which helps create a two-way dialogue rather than a one-sided evaluation.
Be specific and balanced
Use concrete examples rather than general statements. Instead of "good teamwork", say "helped train two new staff members and covered shifts at short notice three times this quarter".
Recognise achievements as well as addressing areas for improvement. Even if performance has been challenging, find genuine positives to acknowledge — it builds trust and motivation.
Set clear goals for next period
End the review by agreeing on SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) for the next period. Also document any training, mentoring or resources that will help the employee succeed.
Looking to automate this process? RosterElf's performance management software simplifies reviews digitally with goal tracking and progress monitoring. Our HR software eliminates paper-based performance reviews.
Who should use this template?
Essential for any business with employees
Legal disclaimer
This template is designed to reflect Australian workplace standards and Fair Work principles at the time of publication. It is provided as a general guide only and does not constitute legal advice.
You should review and tailor this template to suit your business, industry, modern award, enterprise agreement and specific workplace circumstances. For complex situations or disputes, seek independent legal or HR advice.
Regulatory sources
This template is aligned with Australian employment requirements.
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Disclaimer
This document is a general HR template provided for informational purposes only. It is not legal advice and may not reflect the latest changes in legislation or apply to every workplace situation. RosterElf Pty Ltd and the template provider accept no liability for any loss arising from reliance on this document. Users should seek independent legal advice and customise the template to ensure it complies with all relevant laws, awards and workplace requirements.