How to Do Employee Reviews That Don’t Suck (And Actually Improve Productivity)

Most business owners hate employee reviews—and their employees hate them even more. But when done right, evaluations can boost productivity, morale, and even profits. Here’s how to make them count.

1. Keep It Real, Not Robotic

Don’t read from a form like a robot. Speak directly to the person. Highlight real wins. Be honest about where they need to grow.

Example: “You crushed the Langdon project—but your time logs have been inconsistent. Let’s tighten that up.”

2. Make It a Two-Way Conversation

Ask your employees what they need from you to succeed. Sometimes they’re just waiting for permission, a tool, or some support.

3. Tie Performance to Pay

If raises are on the table, be clear about what earned them—or what didn’t. Make it black-and-white. Subjectivity breeds resentment.

4. Set a 90-Day Action Plan

Don’t just look backward—look forward. End the meeting with a short list of clear, trackable goals for the next 90 days.

5. Follow Up or Forget It

The best review in the world is worthless if you never revisit it. Schedule a 15-minute check-in after a month to track progress.

Bottom line: A great review isn’t a beatdown—it’s a blueprint. Make it personal, make it specific, and make it matter.