21 effective performance appraisal templates The performance review season can be a scary time for management and employees. One-sided communications with contradictory messages and long-winded documents make both parties feel like they're always having the same stressful conversation. But if you take the right approach, periodic performance reviews are an excellent opportunity to support solid habits, redirect not-so-good traits, and boost your employees' professional growth. What is a performance appraisal? This is a regulated assessment, in which managers assess an employee's work performance to identify strengths and weaknesses, provide feedback and help set goals . The frequency and depth of...