Oct 30, 2024 · “We’ve observed instances where you are less open to alternative perspectives. Embracing diverse viewpoints can enhance team dynamics and decision-making.” Example Phrases about Problem-Solving and Decision-Making. Positive “You approach problems with a solution-oriented mindset, often finding innovative ways to overcome challenges.” ... May 6, 2024 · 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 ... ... If you are looking for more performance review examples and phrases for different skills, check our main article here (click to open 2000+ Performance Review Phrases: The Complete List) Part 1 Problem Solving and Decision Making Meets or Exceeds Expectations He is a person with good decision-making skills and can make sound fact based judgements. ... 2 days ago · Performance Review Phrase Examples on Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking Problem-solving and critical thinking are crucial skills in today’s fast-paced work environment. These abilities help employees tackle challenges head-on, make sound decisions, and drive innovation within their roles, ultimately ensuring project and operational success. ... Aug 8, 2024 · 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. ... Feb 4, 2024 · Best Performance Review Phrases Demonstrates an exceptional ability to analyze complex issues, identify creative solutions, and implement effective problem-solving strategies, contributing ... ... 6. Your work in this [performance area] is the example by which all other colleagues should follow. Continue capitalizing on your strengths! Problem-Solving and Decision-Making Extent to which an employee deals with complex problems in their entirety. Effectiveness of employee addressing and resolving problems. ... ">

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31 examples of problem solving performance review phrases

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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-person-at-work-talking-to-boss

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.

problem-solving-performance-review-phrases-person-talking-at-work

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.

25 performance review questions (and how to use them)

How a performance review template improves the feedback process, 10 performance review tips to drastically move the needle, 53 performance review examples to boost growth, agile performance management: how to improve an agile team, 3 ways to solve your performance management problems, 5 tactics for managing managers effectively — and why it matters, why today's high-performance culture isn't what you think it is, 37 innovation and creativity appraisal comments, 27 problem-solving strategies to turn challenges on their head, teamwork skills self-appraisal comments: 40 example phrases, your complete guide to self-assessments (with examples), 30 communication feedback examples, 30 customer service review examples to develop your team, 15 tips for your end-of-year reviews, 8 creative solutions to your most challenging problems, stay connected with betterup, get our newsletter, event invites, plus product insights and research..

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120 Performance Review Example Phrases & Comments for 2024

Performance Review Example Phrases

Performance reviews are an essential part of building a successful organization, helping employees grow, stay motivated, and excel in their roles. The key to effective performance management is delivering feedback that’s clear, constructive, and specific. After all, how you communicate feedback directly impacts an employee’s productivity, job satisfaction, and overall career development.

When it comes to performance management, the secret sauce is clear, constructive, and specific feedback. Vague comments like “ be better at communication ” leave employees confused, while specific pointers—like “ respond more quickly to internal emails “—provide clear direction and help employees understand where they excel and where they can improve. This clarity not only drives individual performance but also builds a culture of continuous learning and growth.

Personalized feedback is equally important. It recognizes each employee’s unique contributions, showing that their efforts are noticed and valued. When feedback feels personal and thoughtful, it boosts motivation and job satisfaction, making employees feel seen and appreciated.

In this guide, we’ve compiled 120 Performance Review Example Phrases & Comments for 2024 to help you provide meaningful feedback. Whether you’re celebrating achievements or addressing areas for improvement, these phrases will make your reviews more effective, leading to a more engaged and high-performing team.

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

  • Communication and Interpersonal Skills
  • Quality of Work
  • Collaboration and Teamwork
  • Problem-Solving and Decision-Making
  • Adaptability to Change
  • Time Management and Organization
  • Goal Achievement and Results Orientation
  • Accountability and Responsibility
  • Innovation and Continuous Improvement

We’ve also added example phrases to help employees respond effectively to feedback, whether they’re receiving praise or constructive criticism.

Table of Contents

Example phrases about communication and interpersonal skills.

  • “You consistently communicate your ideas clearly and effectively, making team collaboration smoother and more productive.”
  • “Your ability to actively listen and respond thoughtfully has improved team dynamics and fostered better relationships among colleagues.”
  • “You excel at providing constructive feedback in a respectful and motivating way, encouraging a positive work environment.”
  • “Your approachable nature and strong interpersonal skills make you an excellent team player who colleagues feel comfortable reaching out to.”
  • “You handle conflicts with diplomacy, using effective communication to resolve misunderstandings and maintain team harmony.”
  • “At times, your communication can come across as unclear, leading to misunderstandings. Working on clarity and precision in your messaging could help.”
  • “There are moments when your listening skills need improvement, as colleagues sometimes feel unheard during discussions.”
  • “You have shown a tendency to be overly direct in your feedback, which may be perceived as harsh. Adopting a more diplomatic tone could improve interactions.”
  • “Occasionally, you seem hesitant to voice your ideas during team meetings. Building more confidence in expressing your thoughts could enhance your contribution.”
  • “We’ve observed instances where you struggle to manage conflicts effectively. Developing stronger conflict-resolution skills could enhance team dynamics.”

Example Phrases about Quality of Work

  • “Your work consistently meets or exceeds our quality standards, demonstrating exceptional attention to detail and precision.”
  • “You produce error-free work that is thorough and well-organized, showcasing your commitment to excellence.”
  • “Your deliverables often reflect a high level of accuracy, which enhances our overall team performance and client satisfaction.”
  • “You consistently go above and beyond, ensuring your work not only meets but often exceeds expectations.”
  • “You take pride in your work, maintaining high standards even when managing multiple tasks or working under tight deadlines.”
  • “At times, your work contains errors that could be prevented with more thorough review and attention to detail.”
  • “There are moments when your output lacks the depth expected, suggesting a need for more comprehensive research or analysis.”
  • “Your recent work has shown inconsistency in meeting quality benchmarks. Let’s work on maintaining a steady standard of excellence.”
  • “You sometimes rush through tasks, which impacts the quality of your output. Slowing down and double-checking your work could improve results.”
  • “We’ve noticed that you occasionally overlook small but important details. Paying closer attention to these details will enhance the quality of your work.”

Example Phrases about Collaboration and Teamwork

  • “You actively contribute to team discussions, bringing valuable insights that enhance collaboration and drive results.”
  • “Your ability to work harmoniously with colleagues from diverse backgrounds fosters a positive and inclusive team environment.”
  • “You consistently offer support to team members, demonstrating a strong commitment to collective success.”
  • “Your open and cooperative nature makes you a reliable team player, boosting overall team morale and productivity.”
  • “You effectively leverage team members’ strengths to achieve shared goals, demonstrating strong collaborative skills.”
  • “At times, you seem reluctant to engage in team discussions, which can limit collaboration. Becoming more involved could benefit team outcomes.”
  • “There are instances where you focus more on individual tasks than on team efforts. Balancing both aspects will improve team dynamics.”
  • “You occasionally struggle to accept input from others, which can hinder collaborative decision-making. Being more open to different perspectives could enhance teamwork.”
  • “Your feedback to colleagues can come across as overly critical, affecting team rapport. Adopting a more constructive tone can improve collaborative relationships.”
  • “We’ve observed moments when you prefer working independently, missing opportunities to contribute to team efforts. Engaging more with the team will foster better collaboration.”

Example Phrases about Leadership

  • “You inspire and motivate your team effectively, demonstrating strong leadership skills that drive collective success.”
  • “Your clear vision and strategic thinking have guided the team toward achieving critical goals consistently.”
  • “You excel at delegating tasks appropriately, empowering team members while maintaining accountability for outcomes.”
  • “Your open-door policy encourages team members to share ideas and concerns, fostering a transparent and supportive work environment.”
  • “You demonstrate confidence in decision-making, even under pressure, which sets a positive example for the team.”
  • “At times, your leadership approach can be perceived as too directive, which may limit team members’ creativity and input. Encouraging more autonomy could improve team morale.”
  • “You occasionally struggle with providing timely feedback, making it harder for team members to adjust their performance effectively.”
  • “There are moments when you hesitate to make difficult decisions, which can slow down the team’s progress. Strengthening decisiveness in challenging situations could enhance leadership.”
  • “You tend to focus more on immediate tasks than on long-term strategy. Adopting a more strategic mindset could help drive team growth and performance.”
  • “We’ve observed instances where you are less open to alternative perspectives. Embracing diverse viewpoints can enhance team dynamics and decision-making.”

Example Phrases about Problem-Solving and Decision-Making

  • “You approach problems with a solution-oriented mindset, often finding innovative ways to overcome challenges.”
  • “Your ability to analyze complex situations and make well-informed decisions has consistently led to successful outcomes.”
  • “You remain calm under pressure, effectively evaluating options and making timely decisions that benefit the team.”
  • “Your thorough assessment of risks and benefits before making decisions ensures strategic choices that drive results.”
  • “You are proactive in identifying potential problems early and addressing them before they escalate, showcasing strong problem-solving skills.”
  • “At times, you take longer than necessary to make decisions, which can delay project progress. Improving decision-making speed could enhance team efficiency.”
  • “You occasionally struggle to consider alternative solutions when faced with challenges, limiting the scope of potential outcomes.”
  • “There are instances when your decision-making appears rushed, leading to oversights. Taking a more thorough approach could yield better results.”
  • “You sometimes avoid addressing complex issues, which can impact project timelines. Building confidence in tackling challenging problems is essential.”
  • “Your problem-solving efforts tend to focus on immediate fixes rather than long-term solutions. Adopting a broader perspective could lead to more sustainable outcomes.”

Example Phrases about Adaptability to Change

  • “You handle unexpected changes with ease, maintaining productivity and a positive attitude.”
  • “Your ability to adjust quickly to shifting priorities helps the team stay aligned with new objectives.”
  • “You embrace new processes and tools enthusiastically, making the transition smoother for the entire team.”
  • “Your openness to change and willingness to adapt set a strong example for others, promoting a flexible work culture.”
  • “You consistently view change as an opportunity for growth, which drives innovation and improvement within the team.”
  • “At times, you appear resistant to changes in processes, which can affect project timelines. Developing a more open mindset could improve adaptability.”
  • “You sometimes struggle with adjusting to new roles or tasks, which can impact performance. Embracing change with a more positive outlook could help you adapt faster.”
  • “There are moments when you hesitate to adopt new tools or methods, which may limit team progress. Becoming more open to learning new skills could enhance your adaptability.”
  • “Your reaction to sudden changes can sometimes seem overly cautious, which slows down implementation. Building confidence in navigating change could benefit your performance.”
  • “You occasionally prefer familiar routines over new approaches, missing opportunities for improvement. Embracing change more readily can drive better results.”

Example Phrases about Time Management and Organization

  • “You consistently prioritize tasks effectively, meeting deadlines while maintaining high quality in your work.”
  • “Your organizational skills ensure that projects run smoothly, even when handling multiple responsibilities.”
  • “You demonstrate strong time management, balancing urgent tasks and long-term projects with ease.”
  • “You proactively plan your workload, making efficient use of time and resources to achieve goals.”
  • “Your structured approach to tasks helps the team stay organized and aligned with project timelines.”
  • “At times, you struggle with prioritizing tasks, which affects meeting deadlines. Improving task prioritization could enhance time management.”
  • “You occasionally miss deadlines due to insufficient planning. Developing a more proactive approach to scheduling could be beneficial.”
  • “There are moments when you appear overwhelmed by multiple tasks, leading to disorganization. Creating a clear task list could help manage workload better.”
  • “You sometimes spend more time than necessary on less critical tasks, affecting overall productivity. Focusing on high-priority tasks first could improve outcomes.”
  • “Your approach to managing work can occasionally be reactive rather than proactive. Establishing a more structured routine could enhance efficiency.”

Example Phrases about Goal Achievement and Results Orientation

  • “You consistently set clear goals and achieve them, significantly contributing to team success.”
  • “Your results-driven mindset ensures that project targets are met efficiently and effectively.”
  • “You not only meet but often exceed your performance goals, demonstrating a strong focus on outcomes.”
  • “Your ability to break down goals into actionable steps has led to consistent achievements across projects.”
  • “You maintain a strong commitment to achieving results, even in challenging situations, inspiring the team to do the same.”
  • “At times, your goals lack specificity, making it difficult to measure progress. Setting clearer, more defined targets could improve outcomes.”
  • “You occasionally struggle to meet set deadlines, impacting overall results. Stronger time management could enhance goal achievement.”
  • “There are instances where your focus shifts away from priorities, affecting results. Maintaining alignment with core goals is crucial.”
  • “Your efforts sometimes lack a strategic approach, limiting the achievement of broader outcomes. Embracing a more results-oriented mindset could help.”
  • “You tend to focus more on tasks than outcomes, which impacts overall goal attainment. A stronger focus on end results could drive better performance.”

Example Phrases about Accountability and Responsibility

  • “You consistently take ownership of your tasks and responsibilities, ensuring projects are completed successfully.”
  • “Your reliability and accountability are evident, as you always follow through on commitments.”
  • “You demonstrate a strong sense of responsibility, handling even challenging tasks with dedication.”
  • “You openly accept accountability for your work, addressing mistakes promptly and constructively.”
  • “Your proactive approach to taking responsibility fosters trust and confidence within the team.”
  • “At times, you avoid taking full accountability for tasks, affecting project outcomes. A stronger sense of responsibility could improve performance.”
  • “You occasionally miss deadlines without sufficient communication, impacting accountability. Improved transparency could enhance team trust.”
  • “There are instances when you hesitate to acknowledge mistakes, limiting learning opportunities. Accepting responsibility can drive growth.”
  • “Your follow-through on assigned tasks can be inconsistent, leading to gaps in project completion. Consistent accountability is needed.”
  • “You sometimes rely on others to address issues that fall under your role. Greater ownership of tasks is essential to improve results.”

Example Phrases about Innovation and Continuous Improvement

  • “You regularly introduce creative ideas that enhance processes and improve team outcomes.”
  • “Your innovative thinking has led to significant improvements in project efficiency and quality.”
  • “You actively seek opportunities to enhance workflows, demonstrating a commitment to continuous improvement.”
  • “Your proactive approach to learning new skills drives personal growth and inspires the team to innovate.”
  • “You encourage a culture of continuous improvement, motivating others to explore innovative solutions.”
  • “You occasionally resist trying new methods, which can limit innovation. Being more open to experimentation could improve outcomes.”
  • “Your focus on established processes sometimes hinders improvement. Embracing change can lead to better results.”
  • “At times, your suggestions lack a practical application, making it harder to implement improvements. Focusing on actionable innovation could help.”
  • “You tend to rely on routine approaches, which restricts progress. Adopting a more innovative mindset could enhance performance.”
  • “You occasionally miss opportunities to optimize processes, affecting continuous improvement. A more proactive approach to innovation could drive better outcomes.”

Example Phrases for Overall Performance Summary Comments

  • “You have consistently demonstrated exceptional performance, achieving your goals with precision and contributing significantly to the team’s success. Your proactive approach, attention to detail, and collaborative spirit set a high standard for others.”
  • “Your work throughout this period has been exemplary, marked by strong results, effective problem-solving, and a commitment to continuous improvement. You show great initiative and have been a positive influence on the team.”
  • “You have shown consistent growth, achieving key objectives while maintaining a high level of quality in your work. Your adaptability, innovative mindset, and dedication to personal and professional development are highly valued.”
  • “Your performance has been outstanding, characterized by strong leadership, effective communication, and an unwavering focus on results. You’ve not only met but often exceeded expectations, driving both individual and team success.”
  • “You’ve maintained a strong level of performance across all your responsibilities, showcasing a results-driven approach and a willingness to take ownership of challenges. Your contributions have had a measurable impact on team goals.”
  • “Your overall performance has been satisfactory, but there are areas for improvement, particularly in time management and goal clarity. Greater focus on prioritizing tasks and setting more defined objectives could enhance outcomes.”
  • “While you have shown dedication to your role, there are moments when a lack of consistency affects your performance. Strengthening accountability and follow-through on commitments could drive better results.”
  • “Your efforts have been commendable, but at times, you’ve struggled with adapting to changes and meeting deadlines. Developing better adaptability and time management skills could improve overall performance.”
  • “Your overall contributions have been positive, but there’s room for growth in areas like communication and teamwork. Engaging more actively in discussions and being open to feedback could enhance collaboration and outcomes.”
  • “You’ve shown potential in your role, but inconsistencies in meeting targets and maintaining quality have impacted performance. A more focused approach to goal achievement and continuous improvement would be beneficial.”

Example Phrases for Employees When Responding to Feedback

The phrases above help employees understand where they stand in terms of performance. But it’s just as important for employees to know how to respond to feedback. The way they respond plays a big role in shaping their growth and career journey. Here are some effective ways employees can respond to both positive and constructive feedback from their managers:

Responses to Positive Feedback

  • “I’m really glad my efforts have been impactful. I’ll continue to give my best and seek new ways to contribute even more.”
  • “Thank you for recognizing my work. It’s motivating to know it aligns with the team’s goals, and I’m excited to keep up the good work.”
  • “I’m grateful for your feedback. It reinforces my commitment to the role, and I’m eager to find more ways to support our objectives.”
  • “I appreciate your kind words. It gives me the confidence to tackle new challenges and grow further within the team.”
  • “Thank you for acknowledging my contributions. I’ll maintain this level of effort and aim to bring even more value moving forward.”
  • “Your positive feedback means a lot. I’ll keep pushing forward and look for additional opportunities to support the team’s goals.”
  • “I really appreciate your kind words. It’s rewarding to know that my efforts are making a difference, and I’ll continue to contribute to our shared success.”
  • “Thank you for your encouragement. It gives me the confidence to take on more ambitious projects and grow further in my role.”

Responses to Critical Feedback

  • “I value your feedback, and I see this as a chance to enhance my skills. I’ll put together a plan to address these areas.”
  • “I understand where I need to improve, and I’m committed to making meaningful changes. If you have any suggestions, I’d appreciate your guidance.”
  • “Thank you for being straightforward. I’ll reflect on this feedback and actively work on improving these aspects.”
  • “I recognize the need for growth in these areas and will work diligently to implement the necessary changes. I’m open to any support you think would be beneficial.”
  • “I appreciate you pointing this out. I’ll make it a priority to address these gaps and enhance my performance moving forward.”
  • “I appreciate your honesty and constructive feedback. I’ll use this insight to identify specific steps for improvement.”
  • “I understand your concerns and will make these areas a priority. Do you have any recommendations or resources that could help me improve?”
  • “Your feedback is valuable, and I apologize for any impact my performance may have had. I am determined to learn from this and make the necessary adjustments.”

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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 ✅

performance review 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 software

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.

time tracking software

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 demo

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 software

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.

hiring software

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.

track time

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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performance evaluation phrases for problem solving and decision making

Status.net

174 Performance Feedback Examples (Reliability, Integrity, Problem Solving)

By Status.net Editorial Team on June 18, 2022 — 13 minutes to read

  • Performance Feedback Phrases for Problem Solving Part 1
  • Performance Feedback Phrases for Reliability Part 2
  • Performance Feedback Phrases for Ethics Part 3
  • Performance Review Examples: Additional Resources Part 4

Performance feedback is a critical part of any organization. It helps managers assess the effectiveness of their employees and identify areas for improvement. The purpose of performance feedback is to help the employee improve their skills and work better in the future.

In this article you will find performance review examples for the following skills:

  • Problem Solving and Decision Making The performance review assesses an employee’s ability to analyze complex problems, evaluate options, and make sound decisions within a reasonable timeframe. Looks at how well they troubleshoot issues.
  • Reliability and Dependability The performance review evaluates how consistent an employee is in completing responsibilities on time and meeting expectations. Considers aspects like attendance, punctuality, follow-through, and ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
  • Integrity and Ethics The performance review evaluates an employee’s character and ethics. Looks at trustworthiness, honesty, respect for company policies/procedures, maintaining confidentiality, treating others fairly, and conducting themselves professionally.

Each section below contains positive (“Meets or Exceeds Expectations”) and negative (“Below Expectations”) examples for the skills listed above. If you are looking for more performance review examples and phrases for different skills, check our main article here (click to open 2000+ Performance Review Phrases: The Complete List)

Part 1 Problem Solving and Decision Making

Meets or exceeds expectations.

✓ He is a person with good decision-making skills and can make sound fact based judgements.

✓ He is able to work out multiple alternative solutions and determine the most suitable choice.

✓ He is objective in considering facts or situations.

✓ He doesn’t allow individual emotions or feelings influence decisions.

✓ He is decisive in difficult situations.

✓ He is supportive and encourages others to work with him.

✓ He is skilled at analyzing any situation and working out a solution.

✓ He always defines a problem clearly and seeks out alternative solutions.

✓ He always thinks twice before making his decision.

✓ He consistently updates colleagues on what is going on within the company.

✓ He is prepared to tackle complex situations and always develops suitable solutions to offer to the managers.

✓ He always understands problem thoroughly and tries to find different solutions.

✓ He only makes a decision after considering it carefully.

✓ He provides the latest information relating to his job to everyone.

✓ He does not mind facing complicated situations and always finds appropriate solutions to offer.

✓ He is objective when considering a fact or situation.

✓ He is firm to not let the individual emotion and feeling affect on the made decision.

✓ He is able to make sound fact-based judgments.

✓ He is able to analyze any problem and find the best solution to any problem.

✓ He always analyzes an issue carefully and then looks for different ways to resolve that issue.

✓ He is ready to deal with complicated consequences. He has ability to find the most suitable solutions to submit to management.

✓ He thinks through potential resolutions to problems before making a rash judgment.

✓ He keeps management apprised of ongoing problems or issues that occur within the department.

✓ He is not afraid to respond to complex issues and provide recommendations to all levels of management.

✓ He is able to successfully analyze a problem and find an appropriate resolution.

✓ He clearly explains the problem and offers the users several different resolution options.

✓ His investigative skills has provided a key resource for a team focused on solving glitches. His ability to quickly assess a problem and identify potential solutions is key to his excellent performance.

✓ He examines a problem and quickly identifies potential solutions. He recommends the most suitable solution.

✓ He understands the testing process and how to discover a solution to a particular problem.

✓ He is one of the more technical employees we have on staff. He can quickly analyze a situation and discover practical solutions.

✓ He is adept at discovering potential solutions for problems.

Below Expectations

✗ He is too hesitant to make a decision.

✗ He applies overly complex and impractical approaches to solving problems.

✗ He fails to make short-lists of solutions recommended by direct units.

✗ He is often paralyzed and confused when facing tight deadlines to make decisions.

✗ He makes too many complaints about the content of the job.

✗ He tends to apply a narrow and rushed decision-making approach.

✗ He avoid conflicts at work in relation to the decision making process.

✗ He struggles to work out a solution to any difficult problem.

✗ He is uncomfortable when faced with any awkward problem.

✗ He easily loses focus when facing a complex situation.

✗ He fails to provide managers with the necessary information when a problem arises.

✗ He repeats his mistakes over and over again. He doesn’t know how to learn from failure.

✗ He is unable to find out a solution when facing a complicated situation.

✗ He cannot give managers the requisite information when an issue occurs.

✗ He makes mistakes again and again. John needs to learn the appropriate lessons from failure.

✗ He has difficulty coming up with resolution to difficult problems.

✗ He relies on others in heated situations.

✗ He loses his focus when problems arise.

✗ He is poor at communicating a problem’s status before it becomes a crisis.

✗ He can offer potential solutions to a problem but struggles to identify the best solution.

✗ She lacks the skill to analyze a problem to discuss the core issues.

✗ He resists further training in problem solving. He believes he is proficient, yet he is lacking in many areas.

✗ It is his responsibility, in his role, to solve problems. He seems slow and indecisive when presented with a major issue.

✗ He finds it hard to look for a solution to a difficult situation.

✗ He is impossible to submit needed information to the managers when he faces a complex situation.

Related: Problem Solving Skills: Performance Review Examples (1 – 5)

Part 2 Reliability and Dependability

✓ He is the go-to person if the task absolutely must be completed by a given time.

✓ He shows that he is a positive person who is willing to do whatever it takes to help.

✓ He is an important member of our team and will finish the task when it is required.

✓ He is willing to work overtime until the project is finished.

✓ He never fails to impress by performing well each day. We depend on him.

✓ He always finishes the jobs faithfully, He performs at or above all our expectations.

✓ He is loyal and trustworthy.

✓ He is one of our hardest workers. He demonstrates that he cares about his job, his coworkers, and the company.

✓ He consistently impresses us with her willingness to do whatever it takes to get the job done.

✓ He is a very reliable employee.

✓ He is dependable and turns in good performance each day. He never fails to impress.

✓ He shows faithful commitment to getting the job done. He consistently performs at or above expectations.

✓ When we have a task that must be done, we turn to him. He has our trust because he’s proven he can get the job done.

✓ He is known for his dependability and willingness to do what it takes.

✓ He is willing to get her hands dirty with his employees to ensure the job gets completed on time.

✓ There are many times we have tasks that absolutely must be completed by a given time. He can be relied upon to get the task accomplished on time.

✓ He has been a reliable and valued member of team. His commitment to punctuality and attendance has contributed greatly to our team’s overall success.

✓ He displays exceptional performance day after day.

✓ He keeps his word under all circumstances.

✓ He does everything possible to maintain a strong and steady performance in all circumstances.

✓ He is unfazed by any obstacles, pressures or demands that would justifiably derail others.

✓ He can be counted on to give 100 percent under all circumstances.

✓ He keeps to his commitments and works with fellow employees to help them keep to theirs.

✓ He automatically works extra hours if that’s what it takes to get the job done right.

✓ He can be counted upon for steady performance.

✓ He consistently demonstrates solid performance in all aspects of his work.

✓ He handles projects conscientiously from start to finish.

✓ He is an asset to our team. If it needs to to completed, he will finish it.

✗ We cannot depend on him. If a task must be completed it is better assigned to someone else.

✗ He does not demonstrate a willingness to complete the job.

✗ He is never willing work overtime even if the jobs requires it.

✗ He shows no willingness to do what it takes to get the job done, especially in this economy.

✗ His reliability is in doubt. His work results are often poor and must be checked frequently.

✗ He tends to leave work for others to do; while most of his coworkers are willing to work late to finish the project.

✗ His productivity is not as good as that of his coworkers.

✗ He is very loyal but he cannot be depended on. He is an irresponsible person.

✗ He is usually reliable in his work, but there have been a few incidents where this was not the case.

✗ He is very loyal guy, but cannot be depended on.

✗ We need people who are willing to do whatever it takes to get the job done. He is not one of those people.

✗ He does not demonstrate a concern for others perception of him or his job performance.

✗ His results are not as consistent as those of her coworkers.

✗ He is not reliable for his effort and does not demonstrate a willingness to do whatever it takes to get the job accomplished.

✗ He does not show a willingness to help his employees out even when production is behind. Since being promoted to supervisor, he has taken a hands off approach to the detriment of her team.

✗ He demands reliability from others, but not from himself.

✗ He has energy, drive, and performance levels that are inconsistent and unpredictable.

✗ He talks about deliverables, but does not consistently deliver.

✗ He disappoints employees who depend on him.

✗ He makes promises that he doesn’t keep.

✗ He guarantees that deadlines will be met, but consistently misses them.

✗ He is reliable when it suits him, he constantly needs to be reminded to do tasks he does not enjoy.

Related: Reliability: Performance Review Examples (1 – 5) and Dependability: Performance Review Examples (1 – 5)

Part 3 Integrity and Ethics

✓ He is very punctual and values the time of her colleagues and business partners. He has never been late to business meetings.

✓ He is a very honest person. He never abuses any company benefits for personal purposes.

✓ He is highly principled. He is a good manager who treats all employees equally, regardless of gender, age or any other factor.

✓ He has the ability to resolve disputes with clients and partners peacefully.

✓ He discourages gossip or other negative discourse at the workplace. He forms a good working climate.

✓ He is well-mannered and never criticizes his colleagues when they do something incorrectly. He helps to remedy the situation instead.

✓ He always complies with the dress code. His conduct is as proper and formal as his appearance.

✓ He is a skilled negotiator who follows corporate rules and studied techniques. His negotiation skills have had a positive impact on his career development.

✓ He has developed an effective system of encouraging and criticizing of her employees. His people-management is respected by the working community.

✓ He is one of the most moral employees. His firm stand on principles and ethics is to be commended.

✓ He follows all company policies. He abides by both the letter and the spirit of the rules.

✓ He is highly trustworthy. He shows high ideals about how he believes those around him should behave.

✓ He is someone we expect a lot out of and he consistently delivers. His daily work ethic is a standard which others should follow.

✓ He understands his legal responsibility to the company very well.

✓ His high standards of ethics are shown through all of his work on a daily basis.

✓ He maintains the highest standards of personal integrity.

✓ He displays exemplary behavior in every aspect of his work.

✓ He is highly regarded for his integrity both within and outside the company.

✓ He Is a true embodiment of the company’s values regarding integrity.

✓ He sets the standard for integrity.

✓ He Identifies the most worthy steps and then follows them.

✓ He always opts for the reputable route when given a choice.

✓ He finds and implements commendable ways to handle any ethically challenging situation.

✓ His employees emulate the very high personal standards of integrity he sets.

✓ He consistently engages in meritorious behavior.

✓ He can be counted upon to act honorably in all situations.

✓ He fosters a climate of integrity in his department.

✓ He demonstrates the highest levels of integrity in all his dealings with employees.

✓ He always deals with customers with the highest levels of integrity.

✓ He has a strong sense of integrity that underlies all his dealings with vendors.

✓ He shows good intentions in all her workplace behaviors.

✓ He consistently takes the high road.

✓ He suitably counsels employees who engage in inappropriate behaviors.

✓ He has a strong sense of right and wrong. He consistently strives to do what’s right

✓ He maintains high standards of integrity across his department.

✓ He makes decisions that consistently reflect his strong commitment to acting reputably.

✓ He quickly dismisses less than exemplary options.

✗ He seems to be too focused on his appearance and following the dress code instead of working skills.

✗ His approach to respecting corporate ethics is too strict. The staff cannot show initiative in climate he has created.

✗ He is too restrained and does not encourage or compliment his personnel when he should.

✗ He fails to reprimand his employees even when they make serious mistakes in business negotiations.

✗ He goes into excessive details during business communications to make sure colleagues understands his point of view. It takes too much working time.

✗ His own high ethical approach and his faith in other people want to work ethically is often not justified.

✗ He values a mutually beneficial cooperation with his partners and maintains good relationships with them. He absolutely forgets about the necessary competitiveness, which is also important in business.

✗ He has created democratic and equal relationships with his employees but he should have been more demanding.

✗ He has occasionally made misleading statements that have needed to be corrected.

✗ He is often lax with regard to ethics in business dealings internationally. He must manage his employees to realize that international ethics must be more carefully considered.

✗ There are some accusations from customers that he been untruthful.

✗ He meets the letter of the law but frequently fails to respect the spirit as far as our ethics policy is concerned.

✗ Bending the rules is effectively breaking them in our line of work. He needs to be more cautious about sticking strictly to the rules as defined.

✗ He lets expedience take priority over integrity.

✗ He sets integrity aside when pursuing his goals.

✗ He tries to rationalize his less-than-meritorious behaviors.

✗ Integrity does not seem to rank particularly highly on his list of priorities.

✗ He always expects integrity from others, but doesn’t always display it himself.

✗ He demonstrates acceptable levels of integrity only intermittently.

✗ He has show several recent lapses in integrity.

✗ He violates company standards and expectations regarding employee integrity

✗ He has put the company at risk with his inappropriate actions.

✗ He engages in underhanded behaviors.

✗ Has taken actions that have caused his employees to question his integrity.

✗ He has generated complaints from customers because of issues with his integrity.

✗ He has been the cause of concern from vendors because of his integrity.

✗ He has cost the company customers and money because of his disingenuous behavior.

✗ He has engaged in questionable behaviors that have led to corporate embarrassment.

Related: Integrity: Performance Review Examples (1 – 5) and Ethics: Performance Review Examples (1 – 5)

Learn more:

How to Give Performance Feedback? Techniques and Examples (Positive, Negative, STAR Feedback)

How to Identify and Handle Employee Underperformance? 5 Proven Steps

How to Integrate an Effective Performance Management System?

More Performance Review Examples

Here you can find more performance review examples: click to open 2000+ Performance Review Phrases: The Complete List

  • Problem Solving Skills: 25 Performance Review Phrases Examples
  • Integrity: 25 Performance Review Phrases Examples
  • Flexibility: 25 Performance Review Phrases Examples
  • Initiative: 25 Performance Review Phrases Examples
  • Productivity: 25 Performance Review Phrases Examples
  • Reliability: 25 Performance Review Phrases Examples

performance evaluation phrases for problem solving and decision making

Unlock Effective Feedback: 100+ Performance Review Example Phrases

performance evaluation phrases for problem solving and decision making

  • 100+ Performance Review Phrases
  • 1. Examples on Communication
  • 2. Examples on Collaboration and Teamwork
  • 3. Examples on Problem Solving and Critical Thinking
  • 4. Examples on Time Management and Organization
  • 5. Examples on Leadership and Management
  • 6. Examples on Initiative and Proactiveness
  • 7. Examples on Adaptivity and Flexibility
  • Example Phrases By Rating Scale Options

Performance reviews are pivotal in shaping a thriving workplace, fostering growth, and enhancing employee satisfaction. However, one of the biggest challenges managers and employees face is finding the right words to deliver meaningful feedback. Poorly articulated comments can leave individuals feeling undervalued or confused, hindering the very growth these reviews aim to promote.

The solution lies in using clear, well-structured performance review phrases that communicate observations with precision and empathy. These phrases simplify the process, allowing managers to offer constructive feedback while motivating employees to achieve their potential. For employees, they provide a roadmap to self-assess and align with organizational goals.

In this blog, we’ve compiled 100+ performance review phrase examples to help you navigate this critical process with confidence, ensuring your reviews drive both personal and professional success. Let’s transform feedback into a tool for growth!

100+ Performance Review Phrase Examples

Using the right language during performance reviews is essential for fostering transparency, fairness, and motivation among employees. Clear and concise performance review phrases enhance the credibility of the assessment process, encourage employee development , and align individual goals with organizational objectives.

1. Performance Review Phrase Examples on Communication Skills

Communication skills are key to building strong teams and ensuring smooth collaboration. Whether it's sharing ideas, providing feedback, or simply staying aligned, effective communication shapes the success of both individuals and teams.

Below is a set of performance review phrases that highlight both strengths and areas for improvement in communication skills.

  • Communicates with clarity and purpose, ensuring team members understand key messages.
  • Listens attentively to feedback and makes meaningful adjustments based on it.
  • Explains complex ideas in a straightforward, easy-to-understand manner.
  • Shows empathy and understanding when interacting with colleagues, fostering a positive work environment.
  • Effectively communicates across various platforms—whether through email, phone, or in person.
  • Adapts communication style to suit different team members and their needs.
  • Facilitates meetings with ease, ensuring everyone feels heard and valued.
  • Produces written communication that is clear, professional, and easy to follow.
  • Handles sensitive communication situations with tact and professionalism.
  • Proactively engages in cross-team communication, fostering alignment and teamwork.

Areas for Improvement

  • You have opportunities to enhance clarity in articulating your ideas, which could help reduce confusion among your team members.
  • By incorporating feedback more consistently into your work processes, you could achieve improved outcomes and foster better collaboration.
  • Focusing on simplifying complex ideas could make your valuable insights more accessible to the team.
  • By fostering a greater sense of empathy in your interactions with colleagues, you could strengthen team relationships.
  • Exploring different communication strategies for various mediums could enhance your effectiveness in connecting with others.
  • Adapting your communication style to better align with the preferences of different team members could significantly improve collaboration.
  • Enhancing your facilitation skills during meetings could help ensure that all contributions from the team are acknowledged and valued.
  • Focusing on clarity and professionalism in your written communication can greatly enhance its impact and effectiveness.
  • Approaching sensitive situations with greater tact could help you prevent misunderstandings and foster a more positive environment.
  • Increasing your engagement in cross-departmental communication can help align efforts and enhance collaboration across teams.

2. Performance Review Phrase Examples on Collaboration and Teamwork

Collaboration and teamwork are the backbone of a productive workplace. They ensure that projects run smoothly, while fostering a supportive and inclusive environment where everyone contributes toward shared goals.

Below are some performance review phrases highlighting strengths and areas for improvement in collaboration and teamwork.

  • Works cohesively with team members to successfully achieve collective goals.
  • Builds strong relationships and actively contributes to a positive, supportive work environment.
  • Freely shares information and resources to enhance collaboration and ensure team success.
  • Respects diverse perspectives and participates constructively in group discussions.
  • Shows flexibility and a willingness to compromise to promote team harmony.
  • Actively supports and mentors junior team members, aiding their development and growth.
  • Regularly seeks feedback from colleagues to improve collaborative efforts.
  • Takes ownership of both the team's successes and setbacks, demonstrating accountability.
  • You have an opportunity to enhance collaboration with your team members, which can help us achieve our common goals more effectively.
  • By focusing on building stronger relationships, you could contribute to a more supportive and cohesive work environment.
  • Sharing information and resources more openly could significantly enhance your team's collaboration and overall success.
  • Being open to differing viewpoints and actively participating in group discussions could enrich your team's decision-making process.
  • Embracing flexibility and compromise when collaborating with others could help you reduce friction and foster a more harmonious team environment.
  • Taking the time to offer assistance and guidance to your junior colleagues could greatly support their development and strengthen team dynamics.
  • Actively seeking feedback from your teammates could provide valuable insights that enhance your team's dynamics.
  • Taking ownership of team challenges could foster accountability and encourage a collaborative approach to finding solutions.

This may also interest you: How Do Teamwork Competencies Foster Collaborative and Vibrant Workplaces?

3. Performance Review Phrase Examples on Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking

Problem-solving and critical thinking are crucial skills in today’s fast-paced work environment. These abilities help employees tackle challenges head-on, make sound decisions, and drive innovation within their roles, ultimately ensuring project and operational success.

Below are performance review phrases that highlight strengths and areas for improvement in problem-solving and critical thinking.

  • Effectively identifies and analyzes problems, consistently finding practical and viable solutions.
  • Thinks outside the box to generate creative and innovative approaches to challenges.
  • Applies logic and sound reasoning to assess situations and make well-informed decisions.
  • Shows resilience when faced with obstacles, bouncing back and finding ways to move forward.
  • Anticipates potential issues early and takes proactive steps to address them before they escalate.
  • You have an opportunity to enhance your problem identification and analysis skills, which could lead to more effective and practical solutions.
  • Exploring more creative approaches to problem-solving could open up new possibilities and lead to innovative solutions for you.
  • Improving your logical reasoning skills could strengthen your decision-making processes and lead to more informed outcomes.
  • Building resilience in the face of obstacles could empower you to navigate setbacks more effectively and maintain a positive outlook.
  • Enhancing your ability to anticipate potential issues could help you mitigate larger problems before they arise, contributing to smoother project execution.

4. Performance Review Phrase Examples on Time Management and Organization

Time management and organization are vital for productivity and efficiency in the workplace. Employees who excel in these areas are not only able to meet deadlines but also maintain a structured approach to their work, ensuring smooth progress and high performance.

Here are some performance review phrases that highlight both strengths and areas for improvement in time management and organization.

  • Efficiently manages time to meet deadlines and consistently achieve set goals.
  • Effectively prioritizes tasks based on their importance and urgency, ensuring timely completion of high-impact work.
  • Keeps a well-organized workspace and neatly manages digital files, promoting productivity and quick access to necessary resources.
  • Improving your time management skills could help you meet deadlines more consistently and achieve your goals more effectively.
  • Enhancing your ability to prioritize tasks could ensure that your urgent responsibilities receive the attention they need.
  • Organizing your workspace and digital files could lead to increased productivity and help you save valuable time.

5. Performance Review Phrase Examples on Leadership and Management

Leadership and management skills are essential for anyone in a supervisory role, as they significantly impact team dynamics and overall productivity. Effective leaders guide their teams toward achieving goals through clear communication, motivation, and support.

Here are performance review phrases that highlight strengths and areas for improvement in leadership and management skills.

  • Provides clear instructions and direction, ensuring team members understand their roles and responsibilities.
  • Delegates tasks effectively, trusting team members to execute them while offering necessary support.
  • Inspires and motivates team members to perform at their best, fostering a positive work environment.
  • Offers constructive coaching and feedback, enabling employees to develop their skills and grow professionally.
  • Acts as a role model, demonstrating integrity and efficiency in all actions.
  • Creates opportunities for team members to learn new skills and enhance their capabilities, promoting continuous growth.
  • Shows humility by acknowledging mistakes and learning from them, setting a strong example of accountability.
  • Actively seeks feedback from team members on leadership style and adapts approaches based on their input.
  • Recognizes and celebrates individual and team achievements, boosting morale and motivation.
  • Fosters an inclusive environment where all team members have equal opportunities to participate and contribute.
  • You could benefit from providing clearer and more consistent direction to your team, which might help reduce confusion.
  • You might find it helpful to work on your delegation skills, as this could empower your team and reduce the need for micromanagement.
  • Finding ways to inspire and motivate your team could lead to greater engagement and enthusiasm among your members.
  • Providing more specific and actionable feedback could greatly support the development and growth of your team members.
  • Modeling consistent and ethical behavior could strengthen trust within your team and set a positive example.
  • Creating opportunities for your team members to develop new skills could enhance their career growth and contribute to overall success.
  • Embracing accountability for mistakes could foster a culture of ownership and encourage learning within your team.
  • Actively seeking feedback on your leadership style could provide valuable insights for your personal growth and improvement.
  • Recognizing and rewarding your team members' contributions could significantly boost morale and motivation.
  • You could ensure that all your team members have equal opportunities to contribute, which might enhance cohesion and improve team dynamics.

performance evaluation phrases for problem solving and decision making

6. Performance Review Phrase Examples on Initiative and Proactivity

Initiative and proactivity are essential traits that can significantly enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of a workplace. Employees who demonstrate these qualities often drive innovation and improvement within their teams.

Here are performance review phrases that highlight strengths and areas for improvement in initiative and proactivity.

  • Actively identifies opportunities for improvement and implements effective solutions.
  • Consistently goes above and beyond job requirements, demonstrating commitment to excellence.
  • Proactively seeks out additional responsibilities and challenges to contribute to the team's success.
  • Takes full ownership of projects, ensuring they are seen through to successful completion.
  • Actively seeks feedback and pursues opportunities for self-improvement, demonstrating a commitment to personal growth.

Areas of Improvement

  • You might consider being more proactive in identifying and implementing opportunities for improvement, rather than waiting for direction.
  • Striving for more than just meeting basic job requirements could enhance your overall work ethic.
  • Being more open to taking on additional responsibilities or challenges could provide you with valuable opportunities for growth.
  • Working on your ability to see projects through to completion independently could strengthen your project management skills.
  • Actively seeking feedback and showing interest in self-improvement could help you take a more proactive approach to your personal and professional development.

7. Performance Review Phrase Examples on Adaptability and Flexibility

Adaptability and flexibility are essential in today’s dynamic work environments. Employees who excel in these areas can handle unexpected changes with ease and maintain productivity under pressure.

Here are performance review phrases highlighting strengths and areas for improvement in adaptability and flexibility.

  • Effectively navigates changes in the workplace and adjusts to new tasks with ease.
  • Stays calm and professional during challenging situations, demonstrating resilience under pressure.
  • Adapts smoothly to new tools or processes, showcasing a willingness to learn and grow.
  • Actively listens to feedback and implements changes to enhance performance.
  • Welcomes new tasks with enthusiasm, contributing to a collaborative team environment.
  • You might find it helpful to work on adapting to changes in the workplace, as embracing new tasks can lead to your personal growth.
  • Finding ways to manage stress more effectively could help you maintain professionalism and positively influence team morale.
  • Being more open to adopting new tools and processes could enhance your productivity and contribute to the team's success.
  • Embracing constructive feedback more readily and implementing changes quickly could significantly support your development.
  • Adopting a more positive mindset when approaching new tasks could greatly improve team dynamics and collaboration.

Example Phrases for Different Rating Scale Options

Let us take a look at some examples of performance review statements that you can use when you're actually reviewing a peer or manager.

  • "Tom actively works with his team members, making the workplace a good place to be for everyone. His willingness to share his knowledge and support teammates has strengthened and helped the team flourish.”
  • "Alex is very good at adjusting to new situations. He tackles project changes and unanticipated issues with a cheerful attitude and produces high-quality work when time is short.”
  • "Emily always meets and goes above and beyond performance goals. Her will to achieve is remarkable, and she continually seeks methods to enhance procedures and assist the team to thrive.”
  • “Jessica always uses feedback to better her work and pursues professional growth. Her commitment to improvement inspires her pals.”

Let us now focus on how to actually write a good performance review for different scenarios with the help of 10 examples.

Example 1: Outstanding Performance

"John consistently goes above and beyond expectations, exceeding targets and delivering exceptional results. His attention to detail and proactive approach have significantly improved project outcomes.

For example, his out-of-the-box solution helped us decrease production costs by 20%. John's dedication, strong work ethic, and ability to adapt make him an invaluable asset to the team."

Example 2: Exceptional Team Player

"Jessica consistently stands out as an exceptional team player in our organization. Her collaborative spirit and willingness to support her colleagues have a significant impact on our team's success."

For instance, during a recent project, Jessica took the initiative to organize weekly team meetings to ensure everyone was aligned on tasks and deadlines. Her ability to foster a positive and cooperative work environment is truly commendable. Jessica's dedication to teamwork and her positive attitude make her an asset to our department.

Example 3: Performance Improvement Plan

"Jennifer's performance as a marketing coordinator has been consistently falling short of expectations. She frequently misses project deadlines and lacks effective communication with team members.

In order to support Jennifer's improvement, a comprehensive performance improvement plan has been put into action.

This plan entails setting clear goals, conducting regular check-ins, and providing ample opportunities for skill development, all aimed at helping Jennifer reach and surpass the desired performance standards."

Example 4: Leadership Potential

"Sarah consistently demonstrates exceptional leadership skills and motivates her team to achieve greatness. She excels in delegating tasks, offering valuable guidance, and fostering a highly productive and positive work environment.

Sarah's ability to communicate and collaborate seamlessly with colleagues across various departments positions her as an exemplary candidate for future leadership roles within the organization."

Sarah's exceptional leadership skills and potential for future leadership roles are the focus here. It highlights her ability to delegate, offer guidance, and create a positive work environment.

Related post: Top 10 qualities of a good manager .

Example 5: Excellent Conduct

"Michael consistently surpasses expectations in his role as project manager. He exhibits remarkable leadership qualities by skillfully delegating tasks and providing invaluable guidance to his team. Notably, Michael consistently delivers projects ahead of schedule while upholding an exceptional level of quality. His profound analytical abilities and unwavering attention to detail significantly contribute to the overall success of our team's endeavours."

Michael's excellent conduct as a project manager is acknowledged, with an emphasis on his leadership qualities, project delivery, and attention to detail.

Example 6: Areas for Improvement

"Sara demonstrates excellent technical skills; however, there have been occasional challenges with meeting deadlines. It would be beneficial for her to enhance her time management and prioritize tasks more effectively. By improving her organizational skills, Sara will be better equipped to consistently deliver high-quality work within set timelines."

Sara's technical skills are praised, but areas for improvement, such as time management and organization, are pointed out. The review offers constructive feedback for growth.

Example 7: Very Good Performer

"Natalie consistently meets and often exceeds expectations in her role as a sales representative. She maintains a positive attitude and establishes strong relationships with clients. Natalie consistently meets sales targets and demonstrates excellent negotiation skills. Her ability to adapt to client needs and provide creative solutions has resulted in increased customer satisfaction."

Natalie's consistently high performance as a sales representative is recognized, including her positive attitude and client relationships. It also mentions her ability to meet sales targets and provide creative solutions.

Example 8: Efficient Work

"Samuel meets company expectations in his role as a software engineer. He consistently delivers high-quality code and meets project deadlines. Samuel collaborates effectively with team members and is willing to share his knowledge. Moving forward, he could further enhance his skills by seeking opportunities for professional development and demonstrating stronger initiative in suggesting process improvements."

Samuel's efficient work as a software engineer is highlighted, including his code quality and meeting project deadlines. Suggestions for further improvement are also provided.

Example 9: Needs Improvement

"Olivia shows potential but currently falls short of company expectations as a graphic designer. While she produces visually appealing designs, she often struggles with meeting project deadlines. Olivia could benefit from improved time management skills and better prioritization. Additionally, she should actively seek feedback and guidance from senior team members to further develop her design skills."

Olivia's potential is acknowledged, but areas needing improvement, like meeting deadlines, are addressed. The review suggests ways for her to enhance her skills.

Example 10: Below Expected Standard

"Michael's performance as a customer service representative falls below company expectations. He frequently demonstrates a lack of attention to detail and fails to provide satisfactory solutions to customer issues. Michael should focus on improving his communication skills, actively listening to customer concerns, and seeking guidance from team leaders to enhance his performance."

Michael's performance falls below expectations as a customer service representative. It mentions his lack of attention to detail and offers guidance on areas for improvement.

Do's and Don'ts to Follow While Providing Feedback

Just like any systematic process, in order to conduct a performance review efficiently, you need to keep in mind some dos and don'ts.

Let us begin with a list of the things that you have to do in order to make the performance review process a success.

Listen to what your employees have to say

Rather than keeping the meeting one-sided, you have to keep it two-way. Let the employees speak their minds as well. If it is just the manager who does the talking, there is no scope for open communication. It is an essential part of the review process to understand what the employee has to say. For this to happen, you have to listen to what they have to say.

An action plan for improvement is always welcome

At the end of the meeting, when you are done evaluating them and giving them the reviews, it is always efficient to give them an action plan to follow. What is even better is sitting together with the employee and coming up with the action plan together. It makes sure that employees actually implement whatever is discussed in the meeting.  

The feedback must be specific and actionable

Rather than giving vague remarks like improving the general performance, always make sure to give feedback that is specific and can be put into action. You can help build an OKR for the employee so they have a clear idea of what is expected of them. The more specific the goal is, the better the performance of the employee will be.  

Always do the performance review face-to-face

Do you know what takes a performance review to the next level? Doing it as 1:1 meetings. There can be a lot of misinterpretations that can take place if the meeting is not done face to face, and the meaning of certain feedback might get twisted. To avoid these things from happening, do the meeting face to face.

Just like how there are things that you must do in a performance review, there are certain aspects you must refrain from as well.

Don't make the meeting one-sided

Performance review meetings should be a two-way dialogue, not a one-sided discussion. Encourage employees to share their thoughts on what they can improve and how you can support them in doing their job better. Ask for their input, listen to their ideas, and work together to create a plan for success. By involving them in the process, you foster a sense of collaboration and teamwork rather than making the review solely about coaching and criticism. Remember, achieving goals is a shared effort between you and your employee.

Make sure to focus on the positives as well

A performance review should go beyond highlighting areas for improvement—it’s equally important to acknowledge what employees are doing well.

Recognizing their strengths makes the review process balanced, constructive, and positive. If the focus is solely on shortcomings, employees may feel criticized or unappreciated, which could lead to resentment and disengagement. By highlighting achievements alongside areas for growth, you cancreate a more encouraging and effective review experience.

Do not be biased in your feedback

Sometimes, unknowingly, we let biases creep into our feedback reviews. We might have some preconceived notions about certain employees or have certain favorites among them. So, every manager must keep aside all such personal preferences and opinions and keep the review as objective as possible.

Read about the different performance review biases and how to avoid them .

Don't forget to check in routinely

Conducting a performance review without proper follow-up is one of the few mistakes that could prevent org's from seeing positive performance results. Without frequent check-ins and follow-ups, efforts may go wasted.

Make Every Performance Review Count

At the end of the day, it all boils down to conveying the right phrases. If you still have a hard time phrasing your comments, copy these sentences and paste it onto your notepad.

And, with a performance review software like ThriveSparrow, you can create 360-assessments with ease and schedule assessment surveys at bulk. The platform also organizes the feedback into easy-to-view reports that gives managers and HR a holistic view of each employee's strengths and weaknesses.

Overview of ThriveSparrow's Performance Module

You can streamline your entire performance review process with a few clicks and empower both your managers and employees with individual and team reports.

Get All Your Questions Answered Now > Book a Free Demo With Our Product Experts.

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performance evaluation phrases for problem solving and decision making

60 Best Performance Review Phrase Examples

Effective performance review phrases from managers are critical to employee growth and development. This in-depth list of example phrases works as a starting point for any manager desiring to improve upon performance review communication, while also leaving room to include their own unique style. 

Performance review phrase examples

Managers and employees alike rarely get excited about performance reviews . Sometimes managers lack the confidence to effectively share helpful feedback. In some cases, employees are unsure if they have met leadership expectations. In both cases, clear communication is essential.

Effective communication in performance management is critical to employee growth and development. The health of the organization is largely dependent on each team member fully grasping what is expected of them, and that begins with the manager/employee relationship. While the performance review is not the only determinant of this relationship, it is a defining discussion that gives insight into the level of trust, communication, and respect between the manager and employee. A healthy dose of positive and constructive feedback is needed so the employee knows their value and what action steps to take.

But, effective communication does not come naturally to most. That is why we have compiled a list of performance review phrase examples to help ensure appraisal conversations are pleasant and produce results.

Performance Review Phrases for Employees

It’s a fine balance between honestly sharing performance contributions and sounding arrogant. Reviews can feel awkward because employees generally want to avoid ‘tooting their own horn’ when completing self-evaluations. On the other end, no employee enjoys admitting to their manager the areas in which they struggle. To help combat the self-evaluation challenge, we have listed an easy process below for employees to follow:

  • Action- Clearly explain what action(s) you took toward accomplishing the performance objective, goal, or workplace behavior. Be concise but specific. 
  • Result- What was the result of the action you took? Describe how your action  impacted your organization and/or your team. 

Following this process reduces emotion and opinion and focuses on concrete results/actions. It also gives managers insight into the employee’s perspective, allowing the manager to provide more intentional feedback. Here are a few general examples of employee comments:

  • I adjusted our email campaign to include more stats and less content ( action) based on the desires of our target audience. This resulted in a higher click-through rate and an increase in demo conversions. ( result )
  • I scheduled a one-on-one meeting ( action ) with the project lead to hear her concerns about not meeting our deadline. We determined two major issues and devised a plan to tackle them together. We were ahead of our deadline by 2 days. ( result )

Performance Review Phrases for Managers

The example phrases below are categorized by common performance objectives and core values/workplace behaviors. Each objective and behavior is then broken down further into examples for not meeting, meeting, and exceeding expectations. While these comments are meant to be generalized to assist a larger audience, it is critically important to note that each review should be unique to the employee.

Performance Objectives 

  • Job knowledge/Self-Development 

Problem-Solving and Decision-Making 

  • Productivity 

Quality of Work

Delivers results.

Core Values 

Adaptability

Collaboration, communication, inclusivity, phrase examples for performance objectives, job knowledge/self-development.

Demonstrates a good understanding of job duties and accurately identifies their own strength and development areas. Engages in learning opportunities to further develop skills and capabilities in technical and functional areas, taking constructive feedback when given.

Not Meeting Expectations:

  • You have struggled with receiving and implementing constructive feedback regarding your performance. I suggest creating a plan to tangibly apply these suggestions and asking your teammates for help in doing so. 
  • Your performance is lacking in [specific area(s)]. I recommend setting a goal of taking one measurable action per week to actively improve in this area.

Meeting Expectations:

      3. You have demonstrated a good understanding of job expectations and embraced your strengths while working on your weaknesses. Well done! For stellar performance, I would encourage you to seek out ways to further enhance your skills, such as feedback from peers, LinkedIn Learning, etc. 

     4. You have gracefully accepted feedback on job performance. Continue implementing the recommendations made.  

Exceeding Expectations:

     5. You have exceeded expectations for all job duties by consistently improving upon your skills, tacking development areas, and taking feedback well. Excellent job!

     6. Your work in this [performance area] is the example by which all other colleagues should follow. Continue capitalizing on your strengths!

Extent to which an employee deals with complex problems in their entirety. Effectiveness of employee addressing and resolving problems. Seeks out new and better solutions. Makes appropriate and timely decisions. 

     7. You have not shown sufficient initiative in providing solutions in a timely manner. Your next steps should include quicker responses to active problems.

     8. Your decisions have not been in line with company standards. I would encourage you to focus on the issue in front of you and eliminate unnecessary distractions.

 Meeting Expectations:

     9. You show obvious skill in providing creative and effective solutions. My only suggestion is to take more initiative in anticipating problems before they arise. 

     10. It is clear you are confident in making good business decisions. I would just encourage you to seek out new and improved ways of solving problems with increased efficiency.

     11. You have a knack for finding solutions when others can’t. I look forward to seeing your skills continue to benefit the organization!

     12. Excellent proficiency in problem-solving and making decisions. Your skills set a great example for your team. 

Productivity

Extent of work volume employee regularly produces. Efficient management of workload. Satisfactory speed and consistency of output. Completes requirements/projects within specified timeframe. 

     13. Your productivity has been inconsistent and work is often not completed on time. The action steps required are to meet all upcoming deadlines and ensure work is not missing important items.

     14. You seem to struggle with managing your workload well. I would recommend breaking down deadlines into smaller deadlines for yourself to ensure things are done well and on time. 

     15. You show efficiency and care in the work you produce. Continue honing in your skills and you will see your projects completed faster and even more efficiently. 

     16. Your work is reliable and consistent. As your comfort with [insert task] increases you will be even more impressed with what you can accomplish!

     17. The speed and volume of your work is highly impressive. You show great skill in managing your workload beyond what is required of you.

     18. The consistency of your work is highly reliable and completed well before deadlines. Your skill in this area is obvious and does not go unnoticed. 

Extent to which employee can be counted on to carry out assignments to completion. Work is thorough, accurate, and meets standards. Employee corrects errors and questions inconsistencies. 

     19. Your efforts in [insert area] have not met required standards. It is important that you always check your work for errors before submitting it.

     20. Your team has not been able to trust that you will complete what is required of you on time. A good next step would be to choose a teammate who can help answer any questions you have and hold you accountable to work completion. 

     21. Your work to date has been thorough and consistent with minor errors. Nicely done! I would encourage you to be just a bit more diligent in checking your work for inaccuracies before submission.

     22. Your dedication to completing work on time is very beneficial to your whole team. My only additional feedback is to work to put just as much effort into quality as you do to deadlines.

     23. The quality of your work is excellent and consistently shows no errors. You go above and beyond to ensure no inconsistencies are present. 

     24. Your team and the organization at large benefit from the thoroughness of your work. Everyone knows if you are working on it, it will be done on time and with near perfection. 

Maintains focus and prioritizes tasks based on importance and delegates appropriately. Actively identifies ways to improve. Completes all tasks and goals with accuracy. 

     25. Your tasks have not been prioritized appropriately and therefore do not produce consistent results. It is crucial that you focus on managing your time better, perhaps by writing to-do lists each day. 

     26. Your results have suffered because you appear unwilling to delegate tasks appropriately. I would encourage you to find 2 to 3 tasks you are comfortable passing off to others.

     27. You have mastered the art of prioritizing what is important and you consistently produce results. I would now encourage you to shift your focus to ways you could improve upon [insert skill].

     28. You have actively been improving upon your skillset in this role and continue to produce good results. I would suggest that you continue to work on prioritization to ensure you do not rush to complete things.

     29. Your results produced are consistently exceeding what is expected of you. You skillfully delegate when appropriate and show initiative in improving upon your areas of opportunity. 

     30. Your ability to remain focused on the task at hand is highly impressive. You can always be counted on to deliver results and accomplish all goals. 

Phrase Examples for Core Values

Leads change by example. Accepts change as positive. Adapts plans as necessary. 

     31. Your resistance to change causes disruption and creates a negative work environment. You are expected to take necessary changes in stride and ask any questions you have politely and professionally. 

     32. Your unwillingness to shift plans when necessary slows down work and is frustrating to others. I encourage you to respectfully respond when changes occur and strive to be an example to those around you.

     33. You have proven to be skilled in adapting when necessary and this sets an example for others. I would recommend encouraging your teammates to embrace your attitude by speaking positively about change when it occurs. 

     34. Your willingness to shift your plans when necessary does not go unnoticed. As you continue to hold a positive attitude, change will get even easier!

     35. Your ability to seamlessly transition when necessary is an example to others. Letting the adjustments roll off your back, you forge ahead to complete what is required of you every time. 

     36. You have become a champion of change for your team. They look to you as the reference point for how they should respond and you carry that responsibility graciously. 

Seeks input and ideas from others. Able to effectively work with different personalities and pursue common goals. Respects other opinions. 

     37. You seem to have a difficult time working alongside other colleagues. You are expected to be respectful of other personalities and remain professional, even if you do not like or agree with something.

     38. You have shown an unwillingness to hear ideas other than your own. I encourage you to remain a professional and be willing to work with your colleagues, hearing out their thoughts even if you disagree.

     39. You are a team player and willing to work with people who are not like you. My only recommendation is to actively seek out additional ideas from your colleagues. 

     40. You successfully work toward the same goals with your teammates and remain respectful of all input. Continue with this approach and you will quickly grow into a leader in this area.

     41. Your ability to work well with anyone in the organization sets the standard for all others. You initiate others’ ideas and input, contributing to a culture of strong collaboration. 

     42. Everyone enjoys working with you, even if their approaches are different from yours. You have proven to be the ultimate example of what it looks like to be a collaborative team member. 

Conveys information and ideas through a variety of media to individuals or groups in a manner that engages the audience and helps them understand and retain the message. 

     43. It is difficult to communicate with you as your messaging is often disjointed and confusing. I would encourage you to slow down when typing emails or speaking with colleagues/clients and ensure you have shared all necessary information.

     44. Colleagues and customers have repeatedly struggled with getting in contact with you. It is imperative you communicate via phone call, email, etc. to those waiting on a clear response from you.

     45. You appropriately communicate all necessary information to those who need it. One additional thing to consider is to be more concise in your messaging and correspondence.

     46. Your communication has been timely and clear. I would encourage you to work on adjusting your messaging to your audience. For example, using different verbiage for colleagues vs. customers. 

     47. Your ability to communicate clear, concise messages to everyone you interact with is inspiring. You craft your messaging to the appropriate audience so that no information is left out. 

     48. Your communication is engaging and easily understood.. Phone calls, emails, and face-to-face conversations are clear and effective, and all parties know exactly what you are trying to say. 

We are all a team. We win together, rejoice together, mourn together. We will not develop cliques, or tolerate ‘water cooler talk.’ 

    49. You have neglected to show inclusivity by speaking negatively about your fellow colleagues. You are expected to act as a member of the team, refraining from contributing to discourse. 

     50. You have been working in a silo. Moving forward, you should interact with your team by actively celebrating wins and discussing losses.

     51. You are a positive and active member of the team. While it is encouraged to celebrate your wins, I would encourage you to also attribute those wins to the team members that helped you get there.

     52. Your behaviors toward your team members prove to be inclusive and kind. I would encourage you to distance yourself from conversations that paint the organization or any of its individual members in a negative light. 

     53. You go above and beyond to ensure all team members feel included and appreciated. You show no appetite for engaging in water cooler talk and have stopped those conversations from continuing when you were in the room.

     54. You never act alone, always winning and losing alongside your teammates. You are the first person to congratulate someone else or to walk with someone through a tough situation. 

Every team member is expected to fulfill his or her commitments to the team. In some cases, this may mean working longer than expected on a particular task.

     55. Your work ethic is lacking and your commitments often go unfulfilled. Your next course of action is to commit to completing all commitments, even when it is inconvenient. 

     56. You show a tendency of giving up on something if it is not completed in the time you expected. You are expected to stick it out and complete what is required of you, even if that means working longer occasionally.

     57. You have demonstrated a strong work ethic and fulfill all commitments. For stellar performance, I would encourage you to anticipate upcoming work so you stay ahead.

     58. Your team members can count on you to get the job done. While this will certainly not happen often, I would encourage you to be willing to work later on occasion so you do not have to rush to fulfill your commitments. 

     59. Your strong work ethic is unmatched. You have gone above and beyond to ensure all work is complete and even stayed behind to help a teammate finish theirs. 

     60. Without prompted, you have willingly stayed late on occasion to ensure your work was completed with quality and on time. You set the example for a strong work ethic on this team. 

Create Effective Performance Review Conversations with WorkDove

The above phrase examples are intended to be a launching point for improved performance reviews but all managers should add in their own style. Each manager and employee relationship is unique and every employee deserves individualized coaching for their needs. 

For the most effective review experience, organizations turn to performance review software to streamline the process. WorkDove provides an easy-to-use performance review tool that integrates employee goals, recognition,  360-feedback , and Workplace Satisfaction results. Our app offers automated reminders and customized templates that fuel the review cycle. Improve retention and employee satisfaction with WorkDove’s review capabilities. 

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  8. 55 Effective Performance Review Phrases to Use - Lattice

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    6. Your work in this [performance area] is the example by which all other colleagues should follow. Continue capitalizing on your strengths! Problem-Solving and Decision-Making Extent to which an employee deals with complex problems in their entirety. Effectiveness of employee addressing and resolving problems.