Part of the HR templates hub. It is free, printable and placeholder-based — read it here, copy the block, or use the print/save-as-PDF button. For the wider practice, see the related employer-operations guides and the HR metrics it supports.
Template overview
The template moves from past to future: review the goals set last time, comment on role-relevant areas with specific examples, agree strengths and development, then set goals for the next period — captured as a two-way conversation. It is generic, not a proprietary framework or fixed scoring system.
When to use it
- Running a scheduled performance review or check-in.
- Standardising reviews so they are consistent across managers.
- Recording outcomes and agreed next steps for follow-up.
Who it is for
- Managers preparing and recording a review.
- HR standardising the review process.
- Teams who want fair, comparable reviews.
Template structure
- Details and review period.
- Goals from last period — outcomes in plain terms.
- Areas relevant to the role — comments backed by examples.
- Strengths and development areas.
- Goals for the next period.
- Employee comments and a follow-up date.
Printable template
Copy the block below and replace every [bracketed] placeholder. It contains no real names or data — adapt every part to your situation.
Example (placeholder version)
An illustrative version using placeholders only — it shows the kind of content each part holds, with no real employee or company data.
Customisation guidance
- Use the same structure for everyone so reviews are comparable and fair.
- Comment on specific, observed examples rather than impressions.
- Keep it two-way — invite and record the employee’s view.
- Adapt the areas and any rating wording to the role and organisation.
Common mistakes
- Vague comments with no examples.
- Different structures for different people, undermining fairness.
- A one-way review with no space for the employee.
- Setting next goals that are not specific or owned.
Export, edit and share documents
Once you have filled in this template, you can export, edit, sign, store and share it as a PDF with the HELPERG PDF Editor — handy for sending a finished document or keeping a clean record.
Free, printable HR resources
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