Rating Scale
Use a clear numeric or descriptive rating scale (for example 1–5 or Needs Improvement/Meets/Exceeds), define criteria for each level, and note weighting if different performance areas have varied importance.
Using a standardized Employee Performance Format improves consistency in evaluations, documents objective evidence for personnel decisions, and supports performance development planning. When completed electronically with a tamper-evident audit trail, it also helps meet recordkeeping and compliance expectations.
HR professionals, managers, and supervisors typically complete or review the Employee Performance Format during scheduled appraisal cycles and ad hoc performance discussions.
Larger organizations formalize the format in HRIS systems; smaller employers may use PDF or web forms integrated with payroll and HR files.
Use a clear numeric or descriptive rating scale (for example 1–5 or Needs Improvement/Meets/Exceeds), define criteria for each level, and note weighting if different performance areas have varied importance.
List specific, measurable objectives tied to job duties with target dates and owner. Include past-period outcomes and new SMART goals to track progress and align with department priorities.
Document core competencies and behavioral indicators. Provide examples of observed behavior, note training needs, and record proficiency levels to guide development and promotion decisions.
Provide structured fields for supervisor observations, examples of accomplishments, areas for improvement, and opportunities; encourage evidence-based comments rather than subjective language.
Capture agreed action items, training courses, mentoring assignments, and timelines. Assign ownership and follow-up dates to ensure accountability and measurable skill development.
Include signer names, titles, signature lines, and dates. For electronic completion, record signer identity, method, and timestamp to satisfy ESIGN/UETA record retention requirements.
Electronic completion requires an eSignature solution that supports audit trails, secure storage, and appropriate authentication for your industry and state.
Xerox integrated eSignature into HR workflows to route performance forms and capture approvals across departments.
A healthcare provider digitized employee evaluations to centralize records, control access, and accelerate approvals across multiple clinics.
| signNow | DocuSign | Adobe Sign | PandaDoc | HelloSign | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $8/user/mo | $15/user/mo | $14/user/mo | $19/user/mo | $15/user/mo |
| Free Trial | 7-day free trial | Varies | Varies | Varies | Varies |
| Bulk Send | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| Audit Trail | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| HIPAA Compliant | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No |
| Envelope Cap | No envelope cap | 100 envelopes/user/year | Varies | Varies | Varies |