Employee Evaluation Guide: Which Criteria Should You Use?
Evaluate employees using six criteria: job skills, quality of work, interpersonal skills, problem-solving skills, behaviour and willingness to improve. Rate each criterion from 1–5, apply its weight and combine the results for a total score out of 100. Managers should provide evidence and comments for every criterion, then discuss the results one-to-one with each employee to plan development for the next review period.
What Is Employee Evaluation?
Employee evaluation is the process of measuring and assessing employee performance against established standards. It identifies strengths and weaknesses to support the development of employee capabilities.
Which Criteria Should You Use to Evaluate Employees?
There are six evaluation criteria, covering both "results" (what employees achieve) and "behaviour" (how they achieve them).
1. Job Skills
How well does the employee demonstrate the knowledge and skills required for the job? Can they fulfil all their responsibilities? How do they handle tasks when their knowledge is insufficient?
2. Quality of Work
Does the employee complete work on time? Does the work meet the required standards, and how often do errors occur? Organisations should give appropriate weight to work quality.
3. Interpersonal Skills
Does the employee communicate effectively with others? Can they express opinions, ask questions and explain information clearly to avoid misunderstandings? Do they work smoothly with others?
4. Problem-Solving Skills
Can the employee identify the causes of problems and resolve them carefully and promptly? Do they ask for help when they encounter a problem they cannot solve independently?
5. Behaviour
Does the employee arrive at work on time? Are absences, leave or lateness frequent? Do they follow the organisation’s rules and policies?
6. Willingness to Improve and Develop
When receiving , does the employee make an effort to improve in that area? Are they committed to ongoing development to achieve better results?
How Do Organisations Benefit from Employee Evaluation?
Employee evaluation supports personal development, helps organisations and employees align their expectations, and reveals problems in work processes.
- Employees can reflect on their performance and improve their capabilities at work.
- Organisations and employees understand each other better The organisation understands employee needs, while employees understand organisational expectations.
- Organisations can identify problems and understand which factors or processes affect employee performance.
Summary: Employee Evaluation
Employee evaluation is an important tool for developing capabilities and improving performance. It helps employees recognise their strengths and weaknesses and make improvements. It also helps organisations retain talented people and supports long-term organisational development.
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FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions About Employee Evaluation
Q: How often should managers evaluate employees?
A: Formal reviews are usually held once or twice a year. However, managers should discuss progress monthly or quarterly so employees can make adjustments before the review period ends.
Q: Who should evaluate employees?
A: The direct manager should be the primary evaluator because they observe the employee’s actual performance. Employee self-assessments should also be considered. Some organisations use 360-degree feedback, which includes input from colleagues and other relevant people.
Q: What should you do if an employee receives a low evaluation score?
A: Discuss the causes, then create a development plan with clear goals and deadlines. Monitor progress regularly. If the issue involves misconduct or a breach of rules, document it in writing or issue a warning according to company procedures and labour law.
Q: Is evaluating probationary employees different from evaluating permanent employees?
A: Yes. Probationary reviews focus on whether the employee is suited to the role and organisation. The review must be completed before the probation period ends. Read the guidance at
Q: Are employee evaluation forms available to download?
A: Yes. Download them at
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