Competency-Based Performance Review Template

Competency-based performance review template overview

A competency-based performance review evaluates an employee's performance based on specific skills and behaviors essential to their role and the organization's success.

This template facilitates a comprehensive performance review process that aligns with the organization’s strategic objectives by focusing on both the achievements and areas for the development of each employee.

The template includes:

• Names, review period, and rating scale: Fill in the employee name, role and department, manager name, review period, and performance rating scale (if applicable)
• Instructions for the reviewer: Get guidelines on conducting the review effectively, ensuring consistency and fairness
• Quantitative and qualitative performance evaluation questions: The template contains rating and open-ended questions for assessing various aspects of employee performance and competency mastery
• Core competencies: Evaluate the core competencies required for the employee's current role—the competencies included are communication, teamwork, time management and prioritization, problem-solving and analytical thinking, self-development, and growth mindset
• Technical competencies: Evaluate the specific technical skills required for the employee's current role
• Leadership potential: Assess the employee’s leadership skills and potential to take on greater responsibility
• Overall performance summary: Summarize the performance appraisal for a holistic view of the employee's performance across all areas
• Areas for improvement: Identify areas where the employee can enhance their skills and contributions
• Goals for the next review period: Set specific, measurable objectives for the employee to achieve before the following performance review
• Development planning: Plan the employee’s career development—define concrete next steps, including training, mentoring, and other growth opportunities
• Follow-up timeline: Schedule ongoing reviews and check-ins to discuss progress and readjust goals as needed

How to use this competency-based performance review template

Using this template, managers can conduct thorough and effective performance reviews that highlight areas of improvement, celebrate successes, and align employee growth with organizational objectives.

Here is how you can make the most out of this template:

• Review the competencies included in the template and ensure they align with the role-specific expectations and organizational goals
• Modify the template by adding or removing competencies specific to the employee's role or department
• Use your organization’s complete competency framework to select appropriate competencies
• Decide on using rating scales or keeping the review qualitative—the template uses the 1-5 rating scale, with two sets of performance ratings, one for evaluating effectiveness (1 - Not at all effective to 5 - Extremely effective) and one for assessing quality of work (1 - Very poor to 5 - Excellent), but feel free to customize the rating scales
• Ensure the review criteria are clear, measurable, and relevant to the performance expectations
• Fill in the expected level of mastery for each competency in the evaluation form
• Start reviewing the employee: provide specific examples to illustrate where the employee exceeds or barely meets expectations; identify areas where they need to improve
• Balance constructive feedback and positive feedback

FAQs

What is the competency model of performance review?

The competency model of performance review focuses on evaluating an individual's performance based on a predefined set of competencies critical for success in their role. These competencies often align with the organization's core values, goals, and job requirements.

What is the typical competency assessment process?

The typical competency assessment process involves several steps, including identifying relevant competencies according to the job description and scope, defining performance expectations, selecting assessment methodologies (e.g., self-assessment, co-worker insights, evaluating performance against pre-set metrics), evaluating performance against each competency, providing feedback to the individual, and creating a professional development plan to address areas of improvement.

What is the competency framework for performance management?

A competency framework for performance management is a structured approach to defining, assessing, and developing competencies across an organization. It provides a comprehensive framework for identifying the skills and behaviors required for various roles, evaluating performance against those competencies, goal setting for the upcoming period, and supporting employee development and career progression.

What are common competency-based questions?

Common competency-based questions focus on assessing an individual's abilities, behaviors, and experiences related to specific competencies.

 

Here are some examples included in the template:

• Assessing communication skills: On a scale of 1-5, how effectively has the employee communicated with internal and external stakeholders? 
• Assessing overall job performance: How effectively has the employee supported and contributed to the team's overall performance?
• Assessing adaptability: Can you provide an example of a time when the employee quickly adapted to new technology or software?

How to write a competency review?

Writing a competency review involves assessing an individual's performance based on specific competencies required for their role. The review typically includes an evaluation of the individual's proficiency in each competency, examples of their behavior or actions demonstrating competency, areas of strength, and areas needing improvement. It should be structured and objective, providing actionable feedback and motivating employees to develop their skills further.