What is an Employee Performance Review?
An Employee Performance Review is a formal evaluation process where an employer assesses an employee’s job performance, skills, achievements, and areas for improvement over a specific period. It helps measure productivity, set goals, and provide constructive feedback.
These reviews can be conducted quarterly, biannually, or annually and are essential for employee development, career growth, and aligning individual contributions with company objectives. Performance reviews also help in making decisions about promotions, raises, training, or necessary improvements.
Key Elements to include in an email on Employee Performance
1. Subject Line:
Example: Performance Review Meeting – [Employee’s Name]
2. Greeting:
Address the employee professionally (Dear [Employee's Name],).
3. Purpose of the Email:
Clearly state the purpose of the email (e.g., to provide feedback, schedule a performance review meeting, or share the evaluation report).
4. Performance Summary:
Briefly highlight key accomplishments and areas of improvement.
5. Strengths & Achievements:
Recognize the employee’s contributions and successes.
6. Areas for Improvement:
Address areas where performance can be enhanced with specific feedback.
7. Action Plan & Next Steps:
Outline development opportunities, training, or performance goals for the next period.
8. Meeting Details (if applicable):
Include the date, time, and location of the review meeting if scheduling one.
9. Encouragement & Support:
Offer support and express confidence in their growth.
10. Closing & Contact Information:
Close the email with a positive note and provide contact details for any questions.
Here are some Employee Performance Review Email Template:
1. Performance Review Meeting Invitation
Subject: Performance Review Meeting – [Employee’s Name]
Dear [Employee’s Name],
I hope you are doing well. As part of our ongoing performance evaluation process, we would like to schedule your performance review meeting.
Date: [Date] Time: [Time] Location: [Office/Virtual Meeting Link]
This meeting will focus on discussing your achievements, areas for growth, and future goals. Please feel free to come prepared with any questions or insights you’d like to share.
Looking forward to our discussion.
Best regards, [Your Name] [Your Job Title]
2. Annual Performance Review Feedback
Subject: Your Annual Performance Review Feedback
Dear [Employee’s Name],
We have completed your annual performance evaluation and would like to share feedback regarding your contributions. We truly appreciate your hard work and dedication to [Company Name].
Strengths & Achievements: [Highlight key accomplishments]
Areas for Improvement: [Discuss areas for growth]
We will discuss this in detail during our upcoming review meeting on [Date]. Please feel free to share any thoughts or concerns you may have.
Best regards, [Your Name]
3. Positive Performance Review Email
Subject: Great Job—Performance Review Summary
Dear [Employee’s Name],
I’m pleased to share your performance review results, and I want to commend you on your excellent contributions to [Company/Team]. Your dedication and hard work have made a significant impact.
Key highlights of your performance:
[Achievement 1]
[Achievement 2]
[Achievement 3]
Keep up the great work! Let’s set some exciting new goals for the next quarter to continue your growth.
Best, [Your Name]
4. Performance Review with Areas for Improvement
Subject: Performance Review Discussion
Dear [Employee’s Name],
Thank you for your continued efforts at [Company Name]. After reviewing your performance, we recognize your strengths, but we also see areas where improvement is needed.
Strengths: [Highlight strengths]
Areas for Development: [Address areas needing improvement]
Let’s schedule a meeting to discuss an action plan to support your growth. Please confirm your availability for [Proposed Date & Time].
Looking forward to working with you on your development.
Best, [Your Name]
5. Performance Improvement Plan (PIP) Notification
Subject: Performance Improvement Plan Discussion
Dear [Employee’s Name],
Following your recent performance review, we have identified areas requiring significant improvement. To support you in meeting expectations, we are implementing a Performance Improvement Plan (PIP).
During the next [Timeframe], we will provide guidance and clear objectives to help you succeed. We will schedule a meeting on [Date] to discuss the plan in detail.
We believe in your potential and are here to support you. Let me know if you have any questions.
Best regards, [Your Name]
6. Mid-Year Performance Review Update
Subject: Mid-Year Performance Review Update
Dear [Employee’s Name],
We’re halfway through the year, and we’d like to check in on your progress. Your contributions to [Team/Project] have been valuable, and we appreciate your dedication.
Here’s a summary of your performance so far:
Key Achievements: [List key successes]
Development Areas: [List areas for growth]
Let’s schedule a time to discuss your progress and set goals for the rest of the year. Please share your availability for a review meeting.
Best, [Your Name]
7. Self-Assessment Request for Performance Review
Subject: Performance Review—Self-Assessment Required
Dear [Employee’s Name],
As we approach your performance review, we’d like to hear your perspective. Please complete a self-assessment by [Due Date] and share insights on your accomplishments, challenges, and goals.
Your input is valuable in shaping a productive discussion. Feel free to reach out if you have any questions.
Looking forward to our conversation.
Best, [Your Name]
8. Post-Performance Review Follow-up Email
Subject: Follow-up on Your Performance Review
Dear [Employee’s Name],
Thank you for taking the time to discuss your performance review. We appreciate your openness and willingness to grow.
Key Takeaways from Our Discussion:
Strengths: [List strengths]
Areas for Growth: [List improvement areas]
Goals for Next Quarter: [List goals]
If you have any questions or need further support, please feel free to reach out. Let’s work together to make the upcoming months successful!
Best regards, [Your Name]