Stand Out by Knowing What to Say During Your Performance Review

What to say in a performance review as an employee – they can be nerve-wracking for both employees and managers! As an employee, you want to make a strong impression, showcase your accomplishments, and set yourself up for future growth. But sometimes, it’s tough to know exactly what to say.

This blog post is your one-stop guide to conquering your next performance review with the right words to say. We’ll provide you with specific talking points to inspire and confidently articulate your contributions and demonstrate your value to the company.

65+ Phrases – What to Say in a Performance Review as an Employee

You may already find a set of phrases to say in a performance review in your performance management software. Some platforms also use the Gen AI to help you generate effective feedback and phrases. Here are some impactful phrase examples to help you frame your feedback or comment.

1: Phrases for Teamwork and Collaboration

Manager to the Team Member

• “You consistently take the initiative to help out your colleagues. I see you jumping in to explain things or offer support whenever someone needs it.”
• “Our brainstorming sessions are much stronger with your creative input. You’re great at building on other people’s ideas.”
• “There were a few times communication could have been smoother within the team. Next time, let’s discuss some strategies to keep everyone on the same page.”

Employee to a Manager

• “I appreciate the recognition! I enjoy working collaboratively and seeing how our ideas come together as a team.”
• “I’m always happy to help out when I can. Is there anything specific the team could do to support each other?”
• “You’re right, there were a couple of instances where miscommunication slowed us down. Perhaps implementing a team communication tool or scheduling regular check-ins could help?”

2: Phrases for Communication Skills

Manager to the Team Member

• “Your written reports are clear and concise, making it easy for everyone to understand your findings.”
• “I appreciate how you actively listen to others and ask clarifying questions to ensure understanding.”
• “In a few meetings, I noticed some technical jargon going over people’s heads. Let’s discuss strategies for explaining complex topics in a more accessible way.”

Employee to a Manager

• “Thank you for noticing! I put a lot of effort into presenting information clearly. Is there any specific feedback on how I can improve my reports further?”
• “I believe clear communication is key to a successful team. Can I do anything else to ensure everyone feels comfortable voicing their opinions?”
• “That’s a good point about the jargon. What to say in a performance review as an employee. Perhaps using simpler language or providing additional context would be helpful. I’m open to suggestions!”

3: Phrases for Adaptability and Flexibility

Manager to the Team Member

• “You handled the recent project deadline shift incredibly well. You quickly adjusted your priorities and ensured everything was delivered on time.”
• “I was impressed by your willingness to learn the new software we implemented. You picked it up quickly and started using it effectively.”
• “There were a few unexpected changes in the client’s requirements. How can we improve communication channels to ensure we can adapt to these situations even more smoothly in the future?”

Employee to a Manager

• “Thank you for acknowledging that! I do my best to stay flexible and adjust to new situations.”
• “I’m always eager to learn new things, especially when it helps us work more efficiently. Are there any other areas where you think additional skills would be beneficial?”
• “Absolutely! Perhaps more frequent client check-ins or a designated point person for changes could help us stay on top. I’m open to brainstorming solutions.”

4: Phrases for Problem-solving and Decision Making

Manager to the Team Member

• “I was impressed with how you tackled the recent technical issue. Your logical approach and ability to quickly analyze the problem were key to finding a solution.”
• “Your input during the brainstorming session for the marketing campaign was invaluable. You presented several creative solutions and helped us reach a well-rounded decision.”
• “There were a few instances where decisions could have benefitted from additional data or perspectives. Let’s discuss strategies for gathering more information before finalizing solutions in the future.”

Employee to a Manager

• “Thanks for recognizing that! I enjoy figuring things out and finding solutions that work for everyone.”
• “I believe in approaching problems with a clear head. Is there anything I can do to improve my ability to identify potential issues before they arise?”
• “Absolutely, getting everyone’s input is important. Perhaps involving more stakeholders in the early stages of problem-solving or having a designated data collection process would help.”

5: Phrases for Leadership and Influence

Manager to the Team Member

• “Your presentation on the new product launch was clear, concise, and engaging. You effectively communicated the benefits and motivated the team to get on board.”
• “I appreciate how you mentor junior colleagues and take the time to explain complex tasks. Your leadership style is encouraging and supportive.”
• “There were a few situations where delegating tasks could have empowered others and streamlined workflows. Let’s discuss opportunities to leverage your leadership skills for further team optimization.”

Employee to a Manager

• “I’m glad the presentation resonated with the team! I believe in clear communication and getting everyone excited about projects.”
• “I enjoy helping others learn and grow. Is there anything specific I can do to further improve my mentoring skills?”
• “Delegation is definitely an area I can develop further. Perhaps discussing workload distribution at the beginning of projects or identifying specific tasks suitable for delegation would be helpful.”

6: Phrases for Customer Focus

Manager to the Team Member

• “The positive feedback from our recent client survey mentions your attentiveness and ability to address their concerns effectively.”
• “I noticed you proactively went above and beyond to solve a customer’s problem, exceeding their expectations.”
• “There were a few instances where follow-up with clients could have been improved. What to say in a performance review as an employee. So, let’s discuss strategies for ensuring timely communication and maintaining positive customer relationships.”

Employee to a Manager

• “Thank you for highlighting that! Providing excellent customer service is a priority for me.”
• “I believe happy customers are key to our success. Is there any additional training or resources that could help me further improve my customer focus?”
• “Absolutely, keeping clients informed is crucial. Perhaps implementing a post-service check-in system or designated point person for follow-up could be beneficial.”

7: Phrases for Technical and Professional Proficiency

Manager to the Team Member

• “Your expertise in [specific technical skill] was invaluable during the development of the new project. Your knowledge is impressive.”
• “I appreciate your commitment to continuous learning. Attending the recent workshop on [relevant topic] demonstrates your dedication to professional development.”
• “There were a few situations where a refresher on [specific technical area] could have been helpful. Let’s discuss opportunities for ongoing professional development to ensure you have the resources to excel in your role.”

Employee to a Manager

• “I’m glad my skills were helpful! I strive to stay up-to-date in my field.”
• “I believe ongoing learning is essential. Is there any specific area where you think additional technical expertise would be beneficial to the team?”
• “That’s a great point! Perhaps scheduling regular knowledge-sharing sessions or identifying team members who can provide peer support in specific areas could be helpful.”

8: Phrases for Innovation and Creativity

Manager to the Team Member

• “Your idea to [mention specific innovative suggestions] for the marketing campaign was impressive. It showed a fresh perspective and had great potential.”
• “I appreciate how you’re always willing to think outside the box and suggest new approaches to problems.”
• “There were a few instances where exploring alternative solutions could have been beneficial. Let’s discuss strategies for brainstorming more creative solutions during project planning stages.”

Employee to a Manager

• “Thank you for recognizing that! I enjoy finding new ways to approach challenges.”
• “I believe creativity is key to staying ahead in our field. Is there anything specific I can do to further encourage an innovative team environment?”
• “Absolutely, fostering creativity is important. Perhaps implementing brainstorming sessions at the beginning of projects or creating a dedicated space for sharing innovative ideas could be helpful.”

9: Phrases for Integrity and Ethics

Manager to the Team Member

• “Your commitment to ethical practices is commendable. You consistently uphold company values and ensure transparency in your work.”
• “I appreciate how you speak up when you see something that might be a potential ethical concern.”
• “There were a few situations where additional clarification on company policies could have been helpful. Let’s discuss resources available to ensure a complete understanding of ethical guidelines.”

Employee to a Manager

• “Thank you for acknowledging that! Integrity is very important to me.”
• “I believe ethical conduct is essential in everything we do. Is there anything specific I can do to further promote ethical behavior within the team?”
• “Absolutely, clear communication is key. What to say in a performance review as an employee creating easily accessible guides on company policies or having regular ethics training sessions could be beneficial.”

10: Phrases for Result Orientation and Execution

Manager to the Team Member

• “You consistently deliver high-quality work on time and within budget. Your focus on results is impressive.”
• “I appreciate how you take ownership of your projects and see them through to completion.”
• “There were a few instances where setting clearer timelines or milestones upfront could have streamlined the process. Let’s discuss strategies for better project management in the future.”

Employee to a Manager

• “Thank you for recognizing that! I take pride in delivering effective results.”
• “I believe clear goals and deadlines are key to achieving success. Is there anything I can do to improve my ability to manage my workload and project timelines?”
• “Absolutely, clear communication is essential. Perhaps implementing project management tools or having regular check-ins to discuss progress could be helpful.”

11: Phrases for Initiative and Self-motivation

Manager to the Team Member

• “I was impressed by your initiative in identifying and solving the recent [mention specific situation]. You didn’t wait to be told what to do.”
• “Your proactive approach to learning new skills demonstrates your self-motivation and desire for growth.”
• “There were a few instances where taking the initiative could have expedited processes. Let’s discuss opportunities to empower you further to take ownership in your role.”

Employee to a Manager

• “Thank you for acknowledging that! I enjoy taking the initiative and finding solutions.”
• “I believe self-motivation is key to success. Is there anything specific I can do to take on more challenging tasks or projects?”
• “Absolutely, I’m always eager to contribute. Perhaps discussing areas where my initiative could be most beneficial or setting clear goals for independent work could be helpful.”

12: Phrases for Cultural Competency

Manager to the Team Member

• “Your ability to effectively communicate and collaborate with colleagues from diverse backgrounds is impressive. You create a welcoming and inclusive environment.”
• “I appreciate how you consider different cultural perspectives when approaching projects or solving problems.”
• “There were a few situations where additional cultural awareness training could have been beneficial. Let’s discuss resources available to help you continue developing your cultural competency.”

Employee to a Manager

• “Thank you for recognizing that! I believe fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace is important.”
• “I strive to understand and appreciate different cultural viewpoints. Is there anything specific I can do to promote cultural understanding within the team further?”
• “Absolutely, ongoing learning is key. Perhaps participating in cultural competency workshops or having team-building activities that celebrate diversity could be helpful.”

Conclusion

What to say in a performance review as an employee is a valuable opportunity for both you and your manager. To achieve the best outcome, approach them with an open mind and a collaborative spirit.

Do you need personalized guidance in creating a standard and flexible framework for writing performance reviews? Consider hiring our performance management consultants.

They can provide personalized coaching, help you craft a compelling narrative, and guide you through even the most challenging conversations.

Frequently Asked Questions

1: Are there Ways to Use Performance Review Phrases as an Employee to Promote Team Goals and Objectives?

Surely, By highlighting how your skills and contributions directly benefit team projects and goals, you can use these phrases to show how you’re a team player working towards shared success.

2: “What to Say in a Performance Review as an Employee” Sounds too Generic. Will it Work for My Diverse Team?

Yes, While the phrases provide a starting point, think of them as conversation starters. Adapt them to your specific role and highlight how your strengths benefit your team’s unique members and goals.

3: What are Some Strategies For Addressing Potential Concerns about Inauthenticity or Manipulation?

Focus on genuine examples and connect your strengths to specific team goals to avoid feeling inauthentic. This shows you’re using the phrases thoughtfully and not just reciting a script.

4: What if My Employee Gets Defensive or Disagrees with My Feedback?

Stay calm, listen actively, and focus on understanding their perspective. Acknowledge their feelings and use the phrases to reframe the feedback as a chance to collaborate on improvement.