Feedback is the key to growth. It helps us identify strengths, uncover areas for improvement, and set goals. Employee evaluation forms are the perfect way to make that feedback actionable, ensuring continued progress and success.
In this article, we'll explain employee evaluation forms, including their common types, formats, structure, and best practices for creating them.
What is an employee evaluation form?
The employee evaluation form is a tool that helps managers identify employees’ strengths, weaknesses, and achievements. These forms provide feedback on various aspects of employee roles, set clear expectations, and enhance transparency.
Employee evaluation forms cover key aspects, including job knowledge, communication skills, teamwork, punctuality, problem-solving abilities, and overall work quality.
What gets measured gets improved. – Peter Drucker
For example, employers can use evaluation forms to track progress, acknowledge their strengths, and identify areas for improvement by providing constructive feedback.
Why Use Employee Evaluation Forms?
Following are the benefits of using an employee evaluation form:
- The feedback from these forms can be used to identify and highlight skills that need further development.
- Provide scores related to employee job performance that guide decisions such as promotions, pay increases, and terminations.
- Employee evaluation forms promote transparency and fairness, spotting high potential employees with leadership qualities.
- Well-documented evaluations provide legal protection by showing that an employee’s performance is regularly monitored.
- Understand the strengths and weaknesses of employees and clarify workplace expectations for them.
- Identify the tools and resources employees need to succeed in their roles.
Types of employee evaluation forms in terms of evaluation methods
Management by Objectives (MBO)
In this approach, employees and managers set clear and measurable goals for a specific period. Employee performance is evaluated based on the achievement of those goals.
Behaviorally Anchored Rating Scale (BARS)
BARS measures employee performance based on behavioral examples. The scale includes various performance levels tied to predetermined role standards.
360-Degree Evaluation
360-degree feedback form collects feedback from various sources such as peers, managers, subordinates, and even clients. This method provides a holistic view of an employee's contributions.
Self Evaluation form
This approach allows employees to evaluate their own performance, encouraging self-reflection and accountability. It is often paired with manager evaluations.
Formats of Employee Evaluation Forms and Example Questions
What to Include in an Employee Evaluation Form?
The employee evaluation form is divided into various sections, including:
Employee Information
First things first, get the employee's information. This is a pretty much straightforward process, but essential to include:
- Employee Full name
- Department
- Employee ID
- Job title
- Reviewer name
- Reviewer title
- Evaluation period
- Evaluation date
Choose a Rating Format
Now, when it comes to actually scoring or rating an employee’s performance, you have a few different options. One of the basic scales is the numerical scale.
Another great option is using the RPMS Rating Scale. Here’s what it typically looks like in form
Evaluation points and goals section
Ensure your form includes space for mentioning evaluation points and setting future goals.
Employee comments space
Sometimes, a simple rating just doesn’t tell the whole story. Leave room for comments.
Signatures section
Once everything is done, the employee and the reviewer will sign to make it official.
Also read: 55+ Employee Evaluation Questions for Effective Performance Reviews
Best Practices For Creating Effective Employee Evaluation Forms
Follow these best practices for creating effective employee evaluation forms.
Set goals
Before creating employee evaluation forms, set your evaluation goals, then clearly communicate the criteria so the employees are fully aware of the purpose and expectations of evaluation. Break down evaluation criteria into specific, measurable elements.
Use a Balanced Approach
Apply the sandwiched approach for constructive feedback. To motivate employees, highlight key strengths and areas for improvement. For example, Sarah demonstrates exceptional empathy and patience when dealing with customers; however, she needs to improve her response time to customers’ queries.
Use Clear and Consistent Language
Ensure that your evaluation forms have clear directions and use simple language. Avoid vague questions that lead to ambiguity and confusion. Focus on employees' actions rather than personal traits. Define every scale you use (e.g., "5 = Exceeds Expectations," "3 = Meets Expectations") and ensure consistency.
Focus on Goals and Development
One of the primary objectives of an employee performance evaluation form is to promote professional and personal development. Allow space to identify and establish training goals. Incorporate sections for setting SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) goals.
Train Your Reviewers
You must ensure that your reviewers are fully trained to conduct evaluations. They should be fully equipped, perform unbiased assessments, and communicate feedback effectively.
Customize evaluation forms to the roles
Different job roles require different evaluation criteria. Customize your evaluation form based on department or job responsibilities. For example, a sales role evaluation form would focus on sales targets and customer relationships, while an administrative role evaluation form would focus on organization and efficiency.
Adapt Digital Tools
Organizations that use digital tools such as TheySaid for performance evaluations gain richer insights into employee performance. Digital tools can help create a more responsive and data-informed performance evaluation process that enhances employee engagement and boosts organizational growth.
Also Read: 100+ Employee Evaluation Examples: Best Performance Review Phrases 2025
Key Takeaways
- Understand the various types of employee evaluation forms such as Management by Objectives (MBO), 360-degree Feedback, and Behaviorally Anchored Rating Scales (BARS).
- Combine rating scales, checklists, open-ended questions, and competency-based formats to gather well-rounded insights.
- Equip managers with training to ensure unbiased evaluations, effective communication, and fair scoring.
- Use platforms like TheySaid to simplify data collection, visualize trends, and ensure a smooth evaluation process.
FAQs
What should you avoid in an evaluation form?
Avoid vague language, personal biases, overly long forms, or questions unrelated to the job role. Keep it relevant, actionable, and fair.
What should be included in an employee evaluation form?
Basic info, performance ratings, comments, goals, and signatures. A mix of scores and written feedback works best.
What’s the best rating scale to use in the form?
Keep it simple. A 1–5 scale works well -1 means “needs improvement,” 5 means “outstanding.” Just make sure everyone knows what each number means.
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