Performance reviews, also called appraisals, form part of a holistic approach to managing performance. The value of annual reviews has increasingly been challenged in recent years in favour of more regular conversations, but even so, performance appraisal remains an important part of the performance management cycle.

This factsheet outlines the elements of performance reviews and explores the role of line managers and the skills they require to carry out reviews. It looks at ways of measuring performance and the changing methods of gathering and giving feedback.

On this page

Members access only

Unlock exclusive, tailored content and resources, just for members.

Sign in to access

Not a member yet? Find out how you can become a member today!

CIPD Trust

Tackling barriers to work today whilst creating inclusive workplaces of tomorrow.

Find out more

Bullying
and harassment

Discover our practice guidance and recommendations to tackle bullying and harassment in the workplace.

View our resources

Related content

Podcast
Driving performance with people analytics

People metrics are not often black and white, but how can you better utilise people data to paint a truer picture of employee performance?

Bitesize research
Improving feedback to improve performance

This research outlines recommendations for making feedback discussions more constructive

For Members
Factsheet
Performance management: an introduction

Understand how to build an effective approach to performance management, including the tools that can support it

Factsheet
Competence and competency frameworks

Examines the history, principles and current practice around competence and competency frameworks

For Members

Explore our other factsheets

Factsheet
Technology, AI and the future of work

How artificial intelligence (AI), robots and automation are shaping the world of work, the ethical considerations and the role of people professionals.

Factsheet
Learning theories that impact on design

Learn about the influence of theories on how people learn and the shift away from simplistic learning styles theory

For Members
Factsheet
Harassment and bullying at work

Understand what bullying and harassment at work is, and how employers and employees can address the problem

Factsheet
Wellbeing at work

Understand the links between work, health and wellbeing, and the role of stakeholders in adopting an organisational approach to employee wellbeing

For Members
Factsheets