With day-one unfair dismissal rights coming in, records are more important than ever. Numbers give you a snapshot - but feedback and clear records show the full picture.
This checklist helps you run better conversations, track goals, and build a growth-focused
☐ Review recent notes or logged feedback in Breathe
☐ Check progress against current goals
☐ Prepare 1–2 open questions (e.g. “What’s your biggest win since last time?”)
☐ Listen actively - focus on both words and tone
☐ Ask for self-feedback: “What do you feel you’ve improved on recently?”
☐ Balance numbers with context: “Since our last review, what’s changed for you - and how does that show up in the work?”
☐ Capture discussion points in Breathe as you go
☐ Record agreed actions, deadlines, or new goals in Breathe
☐ Share one piece of positive feedback in writing
☐ Update progress bars/notes so both you and the employee can see it
☐ Set a reminder for the next check-in
☐ Set SMART goals together (specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, time-bound)
☐ Encourage employees to self-update goals in Breathe → builds accountability
☐ Review progress monthly during 1:1s
☐ Celebrate milestones, not just outcomes
☐ Log every 1:1 and feedback note with a date
☐ Capture peer feedback alongside your own observations
☐ Keep a balance of positives and improvements → records should show growth, not just issues
☐ Summarise progress quarterly to spot trends and celebrate growth
Compliance: protects your business with a fair, consistent record (critical with day-one dismissal rights coming into play - using this helps you prepare early).
Growth: shows employees a visible journey of progress.
Clarity: replaces bias-prone ratings with feedback and evidence.
Find more guides, demo videos and practical tools inside Breathe’s Line Manager Essentials training - and start logging, tracking and coaching with confidence.