How to Write a Performance Evaluation: Sample

Montreal Jul 09, 2026

Crafting a performance evaluation can be a daunting task, but it's a crucial process that helps employees understand their strengths, areas for improvement, and career growth opportunities. As a manager or supervisor, writing an effective performance evaluation requires a balance of honesty, constructive feedback, and encouragement. Let's delve into the art of writing a performance evaluation sample that's fair, insightful, and beneficial for both the employee and the organization.

the words sample employee evaluation and performance review are in white letters on a pink background
the words sample employee evaluation and performance review are in white letters on a pink background

Before we dive into the specifics, remember that a performance evaluation is not a one-way street. It's a two-way conversation where you should actively listen to the employee's perspective and work together to set goals for the future. With that in mind, let's explore the key aspects of writing a performance evaluation sample.

the employee action form is shown in black and white
the employee action form is shown in black and white

Understanding the Evaluation Criteria

Before you start writing, ensure you're familiar with your organization's performance evaluation criteria. These criteria should be clear, objective, and based on the employee's role and responsibilities. They might include factors like quality of work, quantity of work, initiative, problem-solving skills, teamwork, and communication.

Performance Evaluation Template: Free Form and Examples [2025] • Asana
Performance Evaluation Template: Free Form and Examples [2025] • Asana

It's also essential to consider the employee's individual goals and the team's or department's overall objectives. This holistic approach helps you provide a well-rounded evaluation that reflects the employee's contributions to both their role and the broader organization.

Setting the Right Tone

a poster with the words 25 key skills to highlight in performance review
a poster with the words 25 key skills to highlight in performance review

Your tone in the performance evaluation should be professional, constructive, and encouraging. Avoid being overly critical or overly praising. Instead, focus on being specific, fair, and actionable. Use "I" statements to avoid sounding accusatory, and always provide examples to support your feedback.

For instance, instead of saying "You're always late with your reports," you could say, "I've noticed that the reports you submit are often past the deadline. In the future, could you try to allocate more time to ensure you meet the deadline? I'm here to support you in managing your time effectively."

Providing Specific Feedback

FREE 11+ Sample Performance Evaluation Forms in MS Word | PDF
FREE 11+ Sample Performance Evaluation Forms in MS Word | PDF

Vague feedback is unhelpful and can be demotivating. Instead, be specific about what the employee did well and where they can improve. Use the SMART goal framework (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) to set goals for the future.

For example, instead of saying "You need to improve your communication skills," you could say, "I've noticed that your written communication could be more concise and clear. To improve this, let's set a goal for you to attend a workshop on effective business writing within the next quarter. We can also schedule regular check-ins to discuss your progress and provide additional support."

Structuring the Performance Evaluation

How To Write A Performance Review When You Hate Selling Yourself
How To Write A Performance Review When You Hate Selling Yourself

Now that we've discussed the key aspects of writing a performance evaluation, let's look at how to structure it. The most common structure includes the following sections:

1. **Self-Assessment**: Begin by asking the employee to assess their own performance. This encourages self-reflection and shows that you value their input. You can then respond to their self-assessment in your evaluation.

an employee's job description sheet with the words employee evaluation from measuring intangible trusts
an employee's job description sheet with the words employee evaluation from measuring intangible trusts
Employee Performance Review Form
Employee Performance Review Form
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Client Challenge
Performance Appraisal Form Filled Sample PDF - Fill Out and Sign Printable PDF Template | airSlate SignNow
Performance Appraisal Form Filled Sample PDF - Fill Out and Sign Printable PDF Template | airSlate SignNow
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How to Write a Performance Review for Your Employees
the self - evaluation form is shown in this document
the self - evaluation form is shown in this document
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101 Sample Write-Ups for Documenting Employee Performance Problems: A Guide to Progressive Discipline & Termination
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How to Write an Effective & Powerful Self-Evaluation for a Performance Review
12 Perfect Employee Evaluation Templates [FREE] - TemplateLab
12 Perfect Employee Evaluation Templates [FREE] - TemplateLab
the text reads, 240 performance evaulation phrases sample performance review statements i hate performance
the text reads, 240 performance evaulation phrases sample performance review statements i hate performance
a sample self - evaluation form for students to use in their writing and speaking skills
a sample self - evaluation form for students to use in their writing and speaking skills
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Client Challenge
General performance evaluation form in Word and Pdf formats
General performance evaluation form in Word and Pdf formats
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Human Resources How-To Guide Performance Review Phrase Generator
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Tips for Writing and Giving Performance Appraisals
How to Prepare for Your Performance Review • The Resilient Recruiter
How to Prepare for Your Performance Review • The Resilient Recruiter
the writing process for an employee's self - service application is shown in this document
the writing process for an employee's self - service application is shown in this document
the printable worksheet is shown for each student's needs to use
the printable worksheet is shown for each student's needs to use
a person typing on a laptop with the text virtual performance review positive and negative phrases to use for remote workers
a person typing on a laptop with the text virtual performance review positive and negative phrases to use for remote workers
6 secrets to getting a better performance evaluation
6 secrets to getting a better performance evaluation

Evaluating Quantitative Performance

Quantifiable achievements are easy to measure and should be a significant part of your evaluation. These could include metrics like sales targets, project deadlines met, or customer satisfaction scores. Use data and examples to illustrate the employee's quantitative performance.

For example, you might say, "This year, you exceeded your sales target by 15%. This is a significant achievement and demonstrates your strong work ethic and sales skills."

Evaluating Qualitative Performance

Qualitative performance refers to the skills and behaviors that contribute to an employee's overall effectiveness. These are often harder to measure but are no less important. They might include things like problem-solving skills, leadership, teamwork, or adaptability.

When evaluating qualitative performance, use specific examples and anecdotes to illustrate your points. For instance, you might say, "When the team faced a setback on the XYZ project, you took the initiative to find a creative solution. This not only resolved the issue but also boosted team morale."

Remember, the goal of a performance evaluation is not to judge or criticize, but to provide constructive feedback that helps the employee grow and improve. By following the guidelines above, you can write a performance evaluation sample that's fair, insightful, and beneficial for both the employee and the organization.

As you wrap up the evaluation process, don't forget to discuss the employee's career aspirations and how you can support their professional development. This shows that you're invested in their future and can help foster a positive, productive work environment.

In the coming months, schedule regular check-ins to discuss progress towards the goals you've set and provide ongoing support and feedback. This will help ensure that the performance evaluation is not just a one-time event, but a continuous process that drives employee growth and success.