A PRACTICAL TEMPLATE

Performance management process template

Map a performance cycle with participants, stages, reminders, decisions and review points.

New Dynamics Editorial TeamUpdated 15 September 20262 min read

Define the purpose

Write the decisions and outcomes the process supports before choosing a form.

  • State the process purpose and scope.
  • Identify the teams and roles involved.
  • Define the cycle and key dates.
  • Name the process owner.

Design the stages

Keep each stage tied to a clear responsibility. Make exceptions visible so HR does not have to manage them from memory.

  • Define employee reflection and preparation.
  • Identify project or peer input.
  • Schedule manager preparation and discussion.
  • Define calibration or approval where needed.
  • Record development actions and follow-up.

Specify rules and communication

Consider a late response, a manager change and an employee who joins mid-cycle. Define how each case should move through the process.

  • Assign participants to each stage.
  • Define required and optional questions.
  • Set reminders and escalation ownership.
  • Document access and approval rules.
  • Explain the process to employees before launch.

Review the cycle

Ask whether the process led to clearer expectations and useful follow-up. Completion is one signal, not the full result.

  • Check where participants needed help.
  • Identify duplicate or unused questions.
  • Review follow-through on development actions.
  • Record changes for the next cycle.

Explore custom workflows and the continuous performance playbook.

Take it into your next conversation.

Download an editable CSV. Open it in Excel, Google Sheets or your preferred spreadsheet tool. No form required.

Download the template

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