Streamlining your performance review process is critical for busy small businesses. Here are proven, easy-to-use performance review templates—plus essential email scripts—that make performance management simple, consistent, and less stressful for everyone.
What it covers: Achievements, strengths, areas for development, goals for the next year
Download formats: Google Docs, Word, Excel, PDFplaky+3
Best for: More frequent check-ins, tracking short-term objectives
What it includes: Goals achieved/not achieved, teamwork, organizational skills
Download formats: Google Docs, Word, PDFaihr+1
Purpose: Employee-led reflection before review meetings
Sections covered: Accomplishments, challenges, goals, satisfaction
Download formats: Word, PDFhibob+2
Use case: Score employees on criteria like teamwork, initiative, learning. Great for quantitative comparisons.
Formats: Excel, Google Sheetsforbes+2
Includes: Questions for team feedback on managers/leaders (upward feedback)
Download: Word, PDFlinkedin+1
Tip: Rotate templates to keep feedback fresh and actionable—or pulse-check teams with the "1-on-1 progress check" variant between major cycles.linkedin
Subject: Your Upcoming Performance Review
Hi [Name],
It’s time for your [annual/quarterly/monthly] performance review. This meeting is a great opportunity to discuss your progress, wins, and areas for growth.
Please complete the attached self-evaluation form and bring it to our meeting on [date/time]. Reach out if you have questions beforehand.
Looking forward to our discussion!
Best,
[Manager Name]
Subject: Reminder: Performance Reviews Next Week
Hello team,
Performance review week is coming up! Please check that you have a review scheduled with your manager. Fill out and bring the self-evaluation form to your meeting.
Questions? Let [HR Contact] know. Thank you for preparing and making reviews productive!
Subject: How to Prep for Upcoming Performance Reviews
Hi [Manager Name],
Our [annual/quarterly] review cycle starts [date]. Please reach out to your team to schedule meetings and ensure everyone completes their self-evaluation.
During each review, encourage your direct reports to share their reflections first, then offer your feedback and support.
Let me know if you need any guidance.
Subject: Performance Review Summary and Next Steps
Hi [Name],
Thank you for our recent review discussion. Here’s a quick summary:
Key accomplishments: [List]
Areas to focus on: [List]
Agreed next steps: [List]
Let me know if you have questions or want to talk further. Looking forward to hitting our goals together!
10 Performance Review Templates (includes Google Docs, Word, Excel, PDF)plaky
Make reviews simple and stress-free:
Download a template, customize the emails above, and give your SMB a smoother, more meaningful performance management experience—no expensive software or HR team required.