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108 Performance Review Phrases (With Examples)

By Chris Kolmar
Jul. 6, 2023
Last Modified and Fact Checked on:

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Performance reviews provide a valuable opportunity for employers to offer constructive feedback, recognize achievements, and guide employees toward improvement. Typically, reviews assess key performance indicators such as productivity, work quality, and attendance. Utilizing effective phrases during these reviews can significantly enhance employee motivation and performance.

As a supervisor or manager, this article will equip you with relevant phrases and ideas to make your upcoming performance reviews more impactful.

Key Takeaways:

  • Regular performance reviews are crucial for discussing employee strengths, weaknesses, growth opportunities, training needs, and potential pay adjustments.

  • It’s essential to evaluate not only productivity and work quality but also interpersonal skills, such as teamwork and communication.

  • Provide employees with ample notice about their performance review and prepare by reviewing their job descriptions, key performance indicators, and crafting a rubric.

Performance Review Phrases

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Examples of Performance Review Phrases for Productivity

Positive Productivity Performance Review Phrases

  • “Consistently manages time efficiently and demonstrates exceptional organizational skills.”

  • “Shows an unwavering drive to enhance productivity and achieve business objectives.”

  • “Your outstanding work ethic is evident in everything you do.”

  • “Regularly contributes significant value to our projects and overall company goals.”

Negative Productivity Performance Review Phrases

  • “Often resists changes that could enhance productivity.”

  • “Distracts colleagues, negatively affecting their productivity.”

  • “Frequent time management issues lead to missed deadlines.”

  • “Sets minimal expectations and does the bare minimum to get by.”

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Examples of Performance Review Phrases for Quality of Work

Positive Quality of Work Performance Review Phrases

  • “Contributes positively to team performance through high-quality output.”

  • “Can be relied upon to consistently deliver exceptional work.”

  • “Your work quality consistently impresses and exceeds expectations.”

  • “Your thoroughness sets a high standard for the team.”

Negative Quality of Work Performance Review Phrases

  • “Frequently relies on coworkers to complete unfinished tasks.”

  • “Regularly disregards established protocols.”

  • “Delivers work of inconsistent quality.”

  • “Fails to meet monthly performance targets consistently.”

Examples of Performance Review Phrases for Attendance

Positive Attendance Performance Review Phrases

  • “Always shows up prepared and ready to engage.”

  • “Respects others’ time by consistently arriving on schedule.”

  • “A dependable team member who is always available to assist.”

Negative Attendance Performance Review Phrases

  • “Fails to meet the company’s attendance standards.”

  • “Often unresponsive on communication platforms while working remotely.”

  • “Frequently takes longer breaks than allowed.”

  • “Has failed to achieve attendance objectives set in previous reviews.”

Examples of Performance Review Phrases for Punctuality

Positive Punctuality Performance Review Phrases

  • “Consistently meets deadlines and expectations.”

  • “Always follows through on commitments and delivers work on time.”

  • “You are one of the most reliable team members I’ve had the pleasure to work with.”

  • “Your commitment to punctuality is commendable.”

Negative Punctuality Performance Review Phrases

  • “Meetings often start later than scheduled due to tardiness.”

  • “Regularly arrives late to work without valid reasons.”

  • “Needs improvement in responding to meeting invitations on time.”

  • “Arriving late to meetings shows a lack of respect for others’ time.”

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Examples of Performance Review Phrases for Communication

Positive Communication Performance Review Phrases

  • “Consistently keeps the team informed of any changes.”

  • “Effectively communicates complex ideas in an understandable way.”

  • “Has a talent for simplifying complicated subjects for others.”

  • “Thank you for your proactive updates during team meetings.”

  • “You are always prompt in responding to emails and follow-ups.”

Negative Communication Performance Review Phrases

  • “Often avoids important conversations with supervisors.”

  • “Struggles to articulate ideas clearly to team members.”

  • “Fails to provide timely updates on projects.”

  • “Has difficulty delivering constructive feedback to peers.”

Examples of Performance Review Phrases for Teamwork and Cooperation

Positive Teamwork and Cooperation Performance Review Phrases

  • “A pleasure to work with and shows respect for all team members.”

  • “Always prioritizes team goals and adapts well to various situations.”

  • “Fosters a positive team atmosphere by resolving conflicts effectively.”

  • “Team members often express how much they enjoy collaborating with you.”

Negative Teamwork and Cooperation Performance Review Phrases

  • “Tends to work within a small group, avoiding broader collaboration.”

  • “Unwilling to assist others when asked.”

  • “Prefers to work independently, even in team-oriented projects.”

  • “Your skills are impressive, but I encourage you to engage more with new team initiatives.”

Examples of Performance Review Phrases for Interpersonal Abilities

Positive Interpersonal Abilities Performance Review Phrases

  • “Brings a positive energy that enhances team dynamics.”

  • “Maintains a positive outlook and boosts morale during challenging times.”

  • “Thoughtful and approachable, making collaboration enjoyable.”

  • “You have a remarkable ability to uplift the team’s spirit.”

Negative Interpersonal Abilities Performance Review Phrases

  • “Struggles to build rapport with team members.”

  • “Needs to improve responsiveness to constructive feedback.”

  • “While your phone interactions are strong, in-person meetings reveal areas for improvement. What support can we provide to help you?”

  • “Your honesty is valued, but it sometimes comes across as blunt. Consider exploring communication training for better relationship building.”

Examples of Performance Review Phrases for Adaptability

Positive Adaptability Performance Review Phrases

  • “Shows great flexibility and understanding in unpredictable circumstances.”

  • “Can be relied upon as a team player during trying situations.”

  • “Quickly adjusts contributions in response to changing business needs.”

  • “I appreciate your adaptability during challenging periods.”

Negative Adaptability Performance Review Phrases

  • “Easily frustrated by unexpected challenges.”

  • “Resists adopting new processes without fully exploring their benefits.”

  • “Struggles with adjustments that could enhance productivity.”

  • “You possess great skills, and I believe you could excel further by managing stress better. How can I assist you with this?”

Examples of Performance Review Phrases for Problem-Solving

Positive Problem-Solving Performance Review Phrases

  • “Demonstrates strong critical-thinking skills by effectively solving issues.”

  • “A reliable resource for colleagues needing assistance with challenges.”

  • “Consistently overcomes obstacles with innovative solutions.”

  • “Your problem-solving skills are impressive.”

Negative Problem-Solving Performance Review Phrases

  • “Unwilling to tackle problems outside their skill set.”

  • “Does not actively contribute to discussions about problem resolution.”

  • “Can be slow to develop and implement new solutions.”

  • “Struggles to identify patterns in recurring problems.”

Examples of Performance Review Phrases for Achievement

Positive Achievement Performance Review Phrases

  • “Consistently delivers exceptional work that exceeds expectations.”

  • “Serves as a role model for others due to their outstanding abilities.”

  • “You’re among the most talented professionals I’ve had the pleasure to work with.”

  • “You continually achieve remarkable results.”

Negative Achievement Performance Review Phrases

  • “Often struggles to meet key performance indicators.”

  • “Has difficulty setting measurable goals aligned with project needs.”

  • “Does not actively pursue personal growth opportunities.”

  • “Lacks motivation to achieve higher standards.”

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Examples of Performance Review Phrases for Leadership

Positive Leadership Performance Review Phrases

  • “Enhances team performance through exemplary leadership.”

  • “Your ability to onboard new employees is commendable.”

  • “Not only delivers high-quality work but also contributes to a positive team culture.”

  • “Your presence on the team makes a significant impact.”

  • “You truly embody what it means to be a team leader.”

Negative Leadership Performance Review Phrases

  • “Struggles to inspire team members to stay focused and motivated.”

  • “Indecisive when assigning tasks and responsibilities.”

  • “Sets vague goals, making performance measurement challenging.”

  • “Team members often express a desire for more recognition.”

Examples of Performance Review Phrases for Innovation

Positive Innovation Performance Review Phrases

  • “Consistently offers unique perspectives that enhance our projects.”

  • “Has an admirable ability to view challenges in a new light.”

  • “You’ve introduced methods that we previously thought were impossible.”

  • “Your creativity in problem-solving is outstanding.”

Negative Innovation Performance Review Phrases

  • “Shows little interest in exploring innovative solutions or incorporating fresh ideas.”

  • “Struggles to generate new ideas during crisis situations.”

  • “Reluctant to adopt new practices that have proven more effective.”

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Examples of Performance Review Phrases for Attitude

Positive Attitude Performance Review Phrases

  • “Your positive demeanor is appreciated by everyone.”

  • “Even during tough times, you maintain an optimistic outlook.”

  • “You frequently offer a refreshing perspective.”

Negative Attitude Performance Review Phrases

  • “Maintains an inconsistent rapport with some team members.”

  • “Shows defiance when assigned tasks, questioning supervisors openly.”

  • “Easily frustrated by unexpected challenges.”

  • “Demonstrates a lack of enthusiasm for company objectives, impacting team morale.”

Examples of Performance Review Phrases for Accountability

Positive Accountability Performance Review Phrases

  • “Demonstrates integrity by accepting accountability for actions.”

  • “Strives for excellence and is never satisfied with mediocrity.”

  • “Your commitment to the team is truly inspiring.”

Negative Accountability Performance Review Phrases

  • “Often deflects blame for mistakes.”

  • “Regularly neglects to follow up with clients.”

  • “Needs to learn from errors to improve performance.”

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What is a Performance Review?

Performance reviews are evaluations where supervisors assess an employee’s contributions and outcomes at work.

The primary topics typically discussed during the appraisal process include:

  • Strengths and Weaknesses. Clearly defining performance expectations helps employees understand where they excel and where improvement is needed.

  • Employee Progress. Supervisors should provide feedback on whether employees have addressed previously identified weaknesses.

  • Training Opportunities. Suggesting professional development resources or certification programs that align with the employee’s career goals can greatly enhance their skills and contribute to the organization’s success.

  • Future Goals. Employees and supervisors can agree on improvement plans to address weaknesses, which can be evaluated in subsequent reviews.

  • Pay Adjustments. Performance reviews can also serve as a basis for promotions or raises.

Performance evaluations are conducted regularly, typically every six months, but can also occur quarterly, monthly, or more frequently based on organizational needs.

How to Prepare for a Performance Review

  1. Update Job Descriptions. Employees value clarity in their roles, and clear job descriptions are essential for fair evaluations.

  2. Determine the Purpose of the Role. Understanding the role’s significance within the organization helps in evaluating its relevance and contribution to overall goals.

  3. Recalibrate Your KPIs. Goals should be adaptable to reflect current organizational needs and employee capabilities.

  4. Identify Skill Gaps. Regularly assess employees’ skill sets to ensure they align with evolving industry standards and provide opportunities for continuous learning.

  5. Create a Rubric. Familiarize yourself with evaluation criteria that facilitate structured and meaningful performance discussions.

  6. Inform Employees in Advance. Provide at least a week’s notice for performance reviews to allow employees to prepare adequately.

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Performance Review FAQ

  1. What should I say in a performance review?

    You should include both positive feedback and constructive criticism in a performance review. It’s essential to acknowledge the employee’s strengths while addressing areas for improvement, offering resources and support for development.

    If you’re an employee, discuss your growth, accomplishments, and areas for future development, and inquire about professional growth opportunities.

  2. How do you write an impactful performance review phrase?

    Craft impactful phrases by being specific and quantifying achievements. For instance, saying an employee is “always positive even in stressful situations” is more powerful than simply stating, “they have a good attitude.”

  3. What should I say in my boss review?

    Focus on providing constructive feedback along with positive comments. Highlight qualities such as, “I appreciate your support in answering my questions” or “Your positive approach inspires me to tackle challenges enthusiastically.”

  4. Are performance reviews important?

    Yes, performance reviews are crucial for providing feedback that fosters growth. They help both employees and managers identify areas for improvement and recognize outstanding contributions, enhancing overall workplace performance.

Final Thoughts

Effective performance reviews are essential for maximizing employee engagement and productivity. By recognizing accomplishments and addressing areas for improvement, you can significantly enhance the value employees bring to your organization.

In addition to the performance review phrases provided, consider other ways to express genuine appreciation for your employees. This acknowledgment fosters a positive work environment and encourages continued high performance.

References

  1. MyHR – Why Performance Reviews are Important

Author

Chris Kolmar

Chris Kolmar is a co-founder of Zippia and the editor-in-chief of the Zippia career advice blog. He has hired over 50 people in his career, been hired five times, and wants to help you land your next job. His research has been featured on the New York Times, Thrillist, VOX, The Atlantic, and a host of local news. More recently, he's been quoted on USA Today, BusinessInsider, and CNBC.

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