A regular, written performance review gives employees honest feedback and gives you a consistent record of performance. Specific examples matter more than scores.
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Important: please read
This template is a free starting point, not legal advice. MadyHR.ai is not a law firm and cannot give legal advice. Employment law is different in every state, and some cities have their own rules. Laws also change. Before you use this template, check it against the laws where your employees work, and speak to an employment attorney or your state labor department if you are unsure. You use this template at your own risk, and MadyHR.ai accepts no responsibility for how it is used. Links to official government websites are given for information only; MadyHR.ai is not affiliated with or endorsed by any government agency.
When to use this template
Annual or six-monthly reviews
End of a probation or introductory period
Before decisions on pay rises or promotions
Tips before you use it
Base ratings on job-related results and behaviors, with examples.
Never comment on age, health, pregnancy, family, religion or other protected traits, or on use of protected leave.
Make sure the review is honest — inflated reviews are hard to defend if performance later becomes a problem.
Template preview
Replace everything in [brackets] and delete the notes for employers before you use it. The Word download contains the full template.
[Company Name]
Performance Review
Employee: [Employee Name]
Job title: [Job Title]
Reviewer: [Manager Name]
Review period: [Review Period]
Review date: [Date]
Rating scale
1 = Does not meet expectations 2 = Partly meets 3 = Meets 4 = Exceeds 5 = Far exceeds
Core areas
Area
Examples
Rating (1–5)
Quality of work
Productivity and reliability
Job knowledge and skills
Communication
Teamwork
Customer service
[Role-specific area]
Goals from the last period
Goal
Result
Met / partly met / not met
Summary
Key strengths
Areas to develop
Overall rating
Goals for the next period
Goal
How it will be measured
Target date
Employee comments
Comments
The employee's signature confirms the review was discussed, not that the employee agrees with it.
There is no legal requirement. Many small businesses review once or twice a year, with short check-ins in between.
Can I mention an employee's absences in a review?
Only absences that are not protected. Do not count FMLA leave, protected sick leave, military leave, jury duty or accommodation-related absences against the employee.
Official sources
Each source below is an official U.S. government website. Check them for the latest rules.
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