How to Write an Objective Employee Review

Writing an objective employee review is one way to help avoid a discrimination lawsuit. Here are some tips to writing a fair review that won't get you into trouble later on.

Things You'll Need

• Uniform employee review form

Instructions

1. Use the same review form for all employees.

2. Avoid describing an employee by gender, age, race or any protected class. For example, avoid sentences such as "She works really hard for a woman." This may seem like a compliment to some, but it can also be construed as a derogatory comment.

3. Relate all comments directly to work performance. Avoid the use of negative comments. For example, if you are upset by the employee's attendance you should only discuss how it affects the employee's job and the company. You should not include personal comments.

4. Note the areas that need improvement in a neutral, factual manner. It would also be a good idea to set goals to help the employee with any deficiencies in their work performance.

5. Have several management level supervisors sign off on the review. This will decrease the chances of employee reviews becoming or seeming arbitrary.

6. If an employee wants to respond to the review, be sure to include it in the emloyee's file. You want to remain fair in dealing with an employee.

References

• Human Resources Service Centre: Management For Performance