Tip: Remember to prepare for the conversation and share key information with the employee beforehand. Providing an overview of what will be discussed helps set expectations and allows the employee to reflect in advance. 
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Step 1: Start the conversation 
A strong start sets the tone for an open and productive discussion. Begin by making the employee feel welcome and appreciated.

Example
"Hi [employee’s name], thanks for joining me today. We appreciate your hard work. This review is a chance to talk about your progress, celebrate your achievements, and discuss how we can support your growth. It’s a friendly conversation, so feel free to share your thoughts and ask any questions. Before we dive into specific feedback, I’d love to hear about your experiences over the past few months." 
 
Conversation prompts
•	What has been a highlight of your work in the past few months? 
•	How have you felt about your workload and responsibilities? 
•	Are there any challenges you’ve encountered that you’d like to discuss? 
 
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Step 2: Discuss performance and growth 
Focus on specific aspects of the employee’s performance. Talk about what’s going well and what they can improve in a collaborative way.
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Achievements or strengths 
Start by highlighting some strengths and accomplishments. Recognizing successes helps employees feel valued and motivated. 

Example
"You’ve been doing a great job completing your tasks. I’ve also heard great feedback about your work from customers and coworkers. That’s awesome! I’d love to hear what achievements you’re most proud of." 
 
Conversation prompts
•	What achievements or successes have stood out to you recently?  
•	Have there been any projects or tasks where you feel you excelled?  
•	What skills or strengths do you think have contributed to your success? 
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Areas for improvement 
Now, look at areas where you can provide more support to help the employee grow in their role.
 
Example
"One thing we can work on together is time management. That includes making sure you’re arriving on time and staying on track with your schedule. Let’s chat about what could help. This is a chance to work together on solutions. I’d like to hear about any challenges you’ve faced.” 
 
Conversation prompts
•	What areas of your work do you feel could improve?  
•	Have you faced any obstacles that have made specific tasks challenging?  
•	What support or changes could help you succeed in this area? 
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Goals of the review 
Go over the goals of the review to stay focused and build motivation for professional growth.
 
Example
"This review is all about seeing what’s going well and finding ways to help you grow. Let’s talk about what you’re interested in learning or improving!" 
 
Conversation prompts
•	What career or professional growth areas interest you?  
•	Are there any skills or knowledge areas you’d like to develop?  
•	How can we support your learning and career goals? 
 
Step 3: Setting goals and expectations 
Set clear and achievable goals to make tracking progress and celebrating successes easier. Work with the employee to find realistic goals that make sense for them.
 
Example
"Let’s set a goal that makes sense for you. For example, if being on time is a challenge, maybe we can work on getting to work on time for most of your shifts over the next month. What do you think? What goals would you  like to focus on over the next few months?" 
 
Conversation prompts
•	What are some realistic goals you’d like to work toward in the next few months?  
•	What steps can we take together to support your progress?  
•	What resources or support would be helpful in meeting these goals? 
 
Step 4: Closing the conversation 
Ending the performance review on a positive and encouraging note helps reinforce key takeaways and leaves the employee feeling motivated and supported.
 
Example
"I really appreciate all the effort you’ve put in. You’re doing great, and I’m excited to see you keep growing! Let’s keep working together to help you succeed. We’ll check in again in two weeks to see how things are going. In the meantime, feel free to reach out if you need any support." 
 
Conversation prompts
•	How do you feel about today’s conversation?  
•	Is there anything else you’d like to share or ask before we wrap up?  
•	How can I support you moving forward? 

Tip: Follow up with the employee and share key takeaways in writing to reinforce expectations, provide clarity, and ensure ongoing support for their success.