Appraisals don’t need to be daunting. With a little preparation and the right approach, they can become one of your most useful people tools.
Use this checklist to guide you through each stage - from prep to follow-up.
◻ Set the date early
Give plenty of notice so there's time to prepare and no last-minute stress.
◻ Agree on what you’ll cover
Share a simple agenda - think goals, feedback, development. Make it clear and easy to follow.
◻ Gather notes and evidence
Look at performance data, feedback, and previous goals. Encourage your employee to do the same.
◻ Choose the right space
Make sure it’s private, quiet and free from distractions - whether that’s in person or online.
◻ Start with a check-in
Ask how they’re feeling about their role. Let the conversation flow naturally.
◻ Review the year (or period)
Talk through wins, challenges, and progress against goals. Keep it balanced and fair.
◻ Give and ask for feedback
Make time for two-way feedback. It should feel like a conversation, not a critique.
◻ Set new goals together
Make sure goals are clear, achievable, and linked to business priorities. Write them down there and then.
◻ Talk development
Ask what they’d like to learn or improve - and explore how you can support that.
◻ Write up a summary
Keep it short and action-focused. Use your appraisal software to log it securely.
◻ Follow up with agreed actions
Book any training, share resources, or schedule check-ins.
◻ Keep the conversation going
Appraisals shouldn’t be done just once a year. Use 1:1s to check in on progress regularly.
Get more guidance on supporting your team in our Line Manager Essentials training.
And when you're ready to put it all into practice, Breathe’s performance tools help you log appraisals, track goals and follow up - so nothing slips through the cracks.