Critical thinking phrases for performance reviews

To make the entire process effective, we have compiled a list of 150+ performance review phrases and captions that you can use with a list of phrases to avoid and best practices for providing reviews on areas of improvement.

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How to use performance review phrases

Before we jump onto the review phrase examples that you could use, let’s discuss how you should use them to ensure maximum efficacy.

• Don’t use generic phrases or buzzwords for all performance reviews
• Make the reviews personalized for each employee
• Add context or quantify the review phrases with information and data points relevant to the employee
• Use performance phrases that are context specific
• Leverage performance review phrases to identify key behaviors for each segment of performance appraisal

Read: Top 10 performance review tips for managers that actually work

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Which performance review phrases should you avoid

While the intent of employee review phrases is to provide appropriate feedback to the employees, there are certain practices and comments that you should avoid. Often, using such phrases will dilute the impact of your conversation. To ensure high levels of effectiveness, you should avoid:

1. Being vague

Steer away from using cliched review phrases which don’t have any substance or communicate impact like ‘Mr. A is an excellent communicator’

This is a generic statement. You should rather use phrases that add value to the statement like ‘Mr. A doesn’t shy away from asking questions in case he has doubts about the conversation.’

2. Comparing two colleagues

You need to ensure that your performance review phrases do not hint on any level of comparison between two employees.

Avoid statements like, ‘Ms. P was able to close 10 deals in 6 months, however, you closed only 6.’

3. Being absolute

On whichever side of the spectrum your performance review falls, ensure that your phrases are not absolute. Put simply, you should stay away from comments that include the terms Always/Never. Even if you want to show incidence of more than one time, use terms like seldom/frequently.

For instance, avoid phrases like, ‘Mr. Q never speaks up during meetings.’

4. Humiliating or downgrading the employees

The intent of using performance review phrases is to ensure that you are able to communicate your feedback in the most meaningful manner

Using statements that humiliate or look down upon the employees defeats the purpose. Ensure that your statements have a constructive tone to them.

It is best to negate statements like, ‘Ms. L is the worst person on the team, she can never get anything right.’

5. Being uncertain

Finally, be very firm and sure of the performance review phrases you use.

Terms like maybe, I am not sure, etc. will downplay the impact because the employee will get a sense of your uncertainty and may not take the feedback very seriously

Avoid using phrases like ‘I think Mr. G has been outperforming his targets for the last 3 months.’

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How to provide reviews on areas of improvements

Not all instances where you will use performance review phrases will be completely positive in nature. Rather, there will be multiple instances when you will have to talk about the areas of improvement for your employees if you really want to see them grow. However, delivering reviews on the latter can be overwhelming. Fortunately, the following tips can help you be well prepared for it.

1. Be specific

Don’t throw random generic statements when you want to speak of areas of improvement. It may seem a good way to avoid confrontation, but you will end up not yielding any impact.

For instance, instead of saying, ‘You did not perform well’, use statements like ‘Your performance in the last project was not upto the mark due to several missed deadlines’

2. Be regular

Next, if you are providing review or feedback for areas of improvement, try to make it as soon as possible, once you identify the challenge. The sooner you share the review, the more relevant it will be.

For instance, saying, ‘Mr. X did not meet sales targets in the first quarter’ when you are sitting in the last quarter will not yield much impact.

3. Try to not get personal

Finally, ensure that the performance review phrases you use do not come across as a personal attack on your employees. They should focus on the behavior or attribute you wish to talk about and not the person specifically.

For instance, instead of commentating ‘You are not serious about your work’ use statements like ‘Your performance in the last quarter indicates a lack of taking ownership’

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150+ useful performance review phrases

Let’s quickly walk through the top 150+ performance review phrases that you can use for performance management and feedback for your employees. We have categorized them under specific performance aspects to make them easier to comprehend.

1] Quality Of Work Performance Review Phrases

You can use these phrases to describe your assessment of whether or not the quality of work has been as per company standards.

Generally, quality of work is intrinsically linked to high levels of motivation, commitment and productivity

Phrases to indicate performance is acceptable or exceeds expectation

1. Has an exceptional attention to detail
2. Consistently follows up and prevents work from falling through cracks
3. Work is well researched and articulated
4. Double checks the work before submitting
5. Maintains a proper plan to ensure nothing is missed

Phrases that indicate need for improvement

1. More focus is needed to ensure greater accuracy
2. Has been inconsistent in the quality of work delivered
3. Needs to put more effort into producing reports that are error free
4. Doesn’t follow an established process of completion and checking of work

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2] Job Knowledge Performance Review Phrases

Every role or job comes with a set of expectations and responsibilities. If an employee is foggy on this understanding, chances are high that he or she will be unable to deliver as per expectations.

Clear job knowledge will help employees set clear expectations of themselves and ensure effective performance

Phrases to indicate performance is acceptable or exceeds expectation

1. Has been able to translate strategy into results
2. Is able to address organizational challenges with technical knowledge
3. Was able to yield 10% higher sales by leveraging new techniques
4. Keen to upskill in the domain of operation
5. Understands the changing job requirements and is willing to adapt

Phrases that indicate need for improvement

1. Is not able to meet changing market expectations
2. Has not been willing to take on opportunities to learn new skills required
3. Unable to provide technical solutions to the problems at hand
4. Is unsure of the skills required for the job

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3] Attention To Detail Performance Review Phrases

Attention to detail is a subset of quality of work and is critical for most roles.

Employees that have high levels of attention to detail are often more proactive and deliver error free work

On the other hand, a lack of the same leads to a high number of inaccuracies.

Phrases to indicate performance is acceptable or exceeds expectation

1. Displays high levels of patience
2. Is highly organized and ensures clarification at every stage
3. Produces work that requires minimal iterations
4. Maintains a checklist to ensure everything is delivered on time
5. Undertakes multiple rounds of proofreading before delivery

Phrases that indicate need for improvement

1. Delivers unreliable or incomplete output frequently
2. Tries to focus on multiple projects at once
3. Tends to overlook requirements in an attempt to complete work on time
4. Doesn’t spend adequate time on details

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4] Dependability Performance Review Phrases

As a performance component, dependability refers to the degree to which you can rely upon your employees to deliver quality work consistently and put in extra effort if the need arises

Phrases to indicate performance is acceptable or exceeds expectation

1. Displays high level of performance every day
2. Has shown time and again that he/she can be counted on during uncertain times
3. Doesn’t shy away from commitment to handle multiple projects
4. Doesn’t complain if the need arises to put in extra hours at times
5. Ensures high quality of work consistently

Phrases that indicate need for improvement

1. Is seen struggling with keeping up with deadlines
2. Rarely delivers what is agreed upon
3. Tends to shift ownership to others
4. Takes leave of absence without prior intimation regularly

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5] Initiative Performance Review Phrases

Initiative is an attribute that is exhibited by only a few employees who take ownership of getting things done without being asked to.

Initiative is generally found among employees that feel a sense of affinity towards the vision and values of the organization and seek to make an impact

Phrases to indicate performance is acceptable or exceeds expectation

1. Proactively sets goals and OKRs for oneself
2. Participates in activities that goes beyond KRA
3. Often tries to engage in areas to deliver more value
4. Constantly takes ownership of new projects and assignments
5. Is willing to go out of the way to help others

Phrases that indicate need for improvement

1. Requires constant reminders and supervision
2. Resists taking on new responsibilities and participating in activities
3. Unwilling to set goals and add value to projects
4. Barely completes the work allotted to him/her

Read: How often should you conduct performance reviews

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6] Teamwork and Collaboration Performance Review Phrases

When you are working in an organization, you seldom work in silos. You often have to collaborate, co-create and collectively work with your team members towards a shared goal. An employee can be a great individual contributor but may not excel in teamwork. However, high levels of teamwork and collaboration lead to greater engagement, commitment and a positive culture.

Phrases to indicate performance is acceptable or exceeds expectation

1. Was active in seeking inputs from all team members during the last project
2. Has shown proficiency in delegating tasks and following up
3. Has been actively participating in all brainstorming sessions
4. Facilitates unity in the team by promoting open communication
5. Has built a rapport with everyone in the team

Phrases that indicate need for improvement

1. Has a poor record of showing up for team meetings
2. Does not willingly share ideas or feedback with others in the team
3. Rarely encourages colleagues and is less than willing to seek feedback
4. Is unable to delegate work in an effective manner

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7] Productivity Performance Review Phrases

Productivity refers to the output an employee is able to deliver, both in terms of quality and quantity. Employees that show high levels of productivity are an asset to the organization. Providing regular performance feedback on productivity can enhance the same by making employees aware about the gaps.

Phrases to indicate performance is acceptable or exceeds expectation

1. Constantly delivers on or before time
2. Has been instrumental in meeting targets in the last quarter
3. Ensures minimal distractions to deliver volumes of high quality work
4. Focuses on using tools and techniques to work in a smart way
5. Achieved sales target 5 days ahead of time for the last month

Phrases that indicate need for improvement

1. Has been asking for extensions on deadlines
2. Unable to focus attention on work for a long time, leading to below average delivery
3. Lacks organizational skills leading to little progress in productivity
4. Has shown reluctance to work on new projects

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8] Attendance Performance Review Phrases

While it is true that employees must be given adequate time off, taking leave of absence very frequently and without prior notice can impact an organization in more than one way.

‍Attendance is not limited to showing up at work, but also permeates to meetings, sessions and learning initiatives. It is an overt display of commitment and engagement and low levels can be an indication of potential attrition

Phrases to indicate performance is acceptable or exceeds expectation

1. Consistently shows up for meetings on time
2. Doesn’t take unnecessary breaks during work hours
3. Informs about time off well in advance
4. Ensures things are managed well with Out Of Office [OOO] automatic emails when not available
5. Doesn’t make others wait for a pre-scheduled meeting

Phrases that indicate need for improvement

1. Shows up late or is a no show during workshops
2. Does not take initiative to respond to meeting invites
3. Spends excessive time on non-productive things during work hours
4. Extends meetings unnecessarily

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9] Communication Performance Review Phrases

Poor communication among employees can lead to misunderstanding, high stress, poor company morale and much more. On the flip side, streamlined communication results in greater engagement and a better experience. Constant feedback on communication can help prevent instances of miscommunication and clarity at all levels.

Phrases to indicate performance is acceptable or exceeds expectation

1. Is able to communicate his/her ideas in a concise yet informative manner
2. Consistently asks questions in case there is any confusion
3. Ensures the every point he/she makes is relevant and well articulated
4. Doesn’t shy away from starting a conversation, especially on a difficult topic
5. Is not afraid of saying “let me get back to you”, when he/she is not sure of the answer

Phrases that indicate need for improvement

1. Has been observed using language that is not welcome by others
2. Is unwilling to listen to others/ take feedback
3. Avoids meaningful conversations
4. Is often verbose and written communication is not clear

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10] Integrity Performance Review Phrases

Employees with high levels of integrity often align with strong moral values and believe in ethical business practices.

Guiding integrity through performance review statements can help build an attractive and reputable employer brand for the organization

Phrases to indicate performance is acceptable or exceeds expectation

1. Ensures that commitment is adhered to
2. Makes an effort to do what is right
3. Does not take the easy way out
4. Maintains a high level of discipline, confidentiality and ethics at work
5. Follows business principles diligently

Phrases that indicate need for improvement

1. Indulges in office gossip
2. Doesn’t give in 100% if left unsupervised
3. Tries to pin blame on others and makes comments in the process
4. Is found breaking rules on more than one occasion

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11] Leadership Performance Review Phrases

Leadership as a quality is integral for your employees if you seek to build a healthy succession pipeline

Reviews on leadership capabilities can help budding leaders build the right skills, competencies and attitudes to take up new roles and positions without any challenge.

Phrases to indicate performance is acceptable or exceeds expectation

1. Successfully led the last team project and recorded 15% increase in sales
2. Provides meaningful feedback to peers and colleagues with clear actions
3. Deals with people with empathy and compassion
4. Encourages team members to unlock full potential
5. Helps others when they are stuck in work

Phrases that indicate need for improvement

1. Rarely shows appreciation or acknowledges others
2. Doesn’t set a positive and authentic example for others
3. Creates a culture of shifting accountability and fear
4. Lacks the willingness and skills to delegate work

Read: Top 7 tips to improve leadership effectiveness

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12] Problem Solving Performance Review Phrases

Problem solving is one of the most critical skills for the 21st century. Employees no longer have to just undertake repetitive tasks, but have to indulge in critical thinking to address real world challenges.

Creating a culture of problem solving can help you ensure resilience and business continuity even during uncertainty and ambiguity

Phrases to indicate performance is acceptable or exceeds expectation

1. Proactively suggests new and innovative solutions to problems
2. Always comes with a few solutions to the management when a challenge arises
3. Views problems as opportunities
4. Helped address a customer complaint leading to 10% increase in customer stickiness
5. Is good at preempting and evaluating challenges

Phrases that indicate need for improvement

1. Rarely comes up with ideas or suggestions during brainstorming sessions
2. Sticks to the processes and practices and shies away from experimentation
3. Fails to comprehensively understand the problem
4. Is hesitant to change the conventional flow of processes and work

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13] Adaptability Performance Review Phrases

Surrounded by uncertain market conditions, employees need to display high levels of adaptability. Be it picking up new skills, or pivoting priorities as the need arises, adaptability is highly critical today. Consistent feedback on adaptability can help employees gauge the importance of this quality and focus on developing the same.

Phrases to indicate performance is acceptable or exceeds expectation

1. Is willing to adjust priorities, deadlines based on changed realities
2. Thinks on the feet and quickly responds to a new challenge
3. Believes change can lead to better outcomes
4. Upskilled himself/herself in 3 months to deliver the last project successfully
5. Makes conscious effort to remain agile

Phrases that indicate need for improvement

1. Is reluctant to move out of the comfort zone
2. Feels overwhelmed when asked to adjust priorities and take on new work
3. Unable to maintain calm and composure when uncertainty strikes
4. Rarely attends sessions on change management

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14] Flexibility Performance Review Phrases

Close to adaptability lies the quality of flexibility to describe employees who are not rigid and set in their own ways. They are open to new ideas and are willing to accommodate in case the need arises.

Phrases to indicate performance is acceptable or exceeds expectation

1. Has a positive attitude when there is a need to accommodate or change
2. Shows proactiveness in case of urgent changes
3. Is willing to embrace change
4. Adjusts well with new responsibilities and duties
5. Is willing to adjust when others request

Phrases that indicate need for improvement

1. Doesn’t move away from what he/she believes is right
2. Is not willing to view things from others’ point of view
3. Rarely helps others if there will be no impact on him/her
4. Unwilling to work according to schedules of others

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15] Adherence To Policy Performance Review Phrases

While it is important to innovate and think out of the box, a certain level of adherence and compliance to policies and practices is integral for a thriving culture. For instance, certain HR policies, POSH policy, etc. need to be adhered to, to ensure the maintenance of a professional decorum and create a safe workspace for everyone.

Phrases to indicate performance is acceptable or exceeds expectation

1. Respects and follows all policies set by the company
2. Ensures that any instance of poor compliance is reported immediately
3. Is vocal about commitment to policies
4. Has deep knowledge about the content and intent of each policy
5. Makes an effort to engage in different committees, initiatives to further the policy impact

Phrases that indicate need for improvement

1. Is unaware about the policies that exist in the organization
2. Doesn’t make an effort to attend workshops/sessions organized on key policies
3. Doesn’t actively make an effort to adhere to policies
4. Dismisses colleagues when they quote policies to him/her

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16] Achievements Performance Review Phrases

Though not exactly a performance parameter, it is very important to get in line performance review phrases that talk about achievements of the employees. While positive phrases can reinforce the achievements, areas of improvement can help reach the desired levels.

Phrases to indicate performance is acceptable or exceeds expectation

1. Ended the last quarter with 20% more sales than the previous one
2. Saved $1 Million for the company by leveraging automation tools
3. Outperformed other teams by exceeding the target by 15%
4. Increased customer stickiness by 15% by reducing complaint resolution time to 24 hours
5. Increased organic traffic on the website by 35% leveraging the right SEO techniques

Phrases that indicate need for improvement

1. Missed meeting the target for last month by 5%
2. Unable to meet deadlines because of lack of organization
3. Finds it difficult to deliver error free work consistently
4. Needs to focus on better social media engagement to increase organic traffic

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17] Professionalism Performance Review Phrases

Despite the rise of a casual work culture, especially with the advent of remote work, there is a need to maintain a level of professionalism to ensure the right culture. Performance review phrases on professionalism can help employees understand what is desirable and how it ultimately impacts productivity, performance, retention and engagement at large.

What are the 5 words for performance review?

Simple, Direct, Honest, Personal, And Blunt: How The 5-Word Performance Review Works Wonders.

What is performance review phrases for creative thinking?

Example Phrases about Creativity "Your ability to think outside the box has led to innovative solutions and improvements in our processes." "Your creative insights have often resulted in fresh perspectives that benefit our team's work."

How do you write logical thinking in appraisal form?

✓ He has strong reasoning and critical-thinking skills that help him handle problems well. ✓ He is careful and always thoroughly considers everything before he submitting any idea. ✓ He always thinks twice before he meets any problem.

How do you write an impactful performance review phrases?

Here are some phrases that emphasize an employee's strong work ethic and overall performance:.

“Consistently meets sales goals”.

“Assists coworkers and helps them achieve their own goals”.

“Completes all tasks on time”.

“Works well with all members of their team”.

“Follows directions for all assigned tasks”.