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How To Say It Performance Reviews: Phrases and Strategies for Painless and Productive Performance Reviews
Written by two top business trainers, this guide reveals the strategies and language skills needed to make the most of performance appraisals - for both the reviewers and the reviewed. It breaks the process into five simple steps and explains what to say with hundreds of winning phrases organized by topic (and hundreds of counterproductive phrases too). Also included is advice on preparing an agenda, body language, and tone of voice - plus true success and horror stories.
207 pages, Paperback
First published December 5, 2006
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Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews
May 29, 2014
In my job as supervisor there are some materials on having performance reviews but I felt the need to branch out and found this book in my research. I did learn several new techniques that I hope to incorporate in my routine. This book was a quick read and easy to follow.
August 4, 2008
Good content, presented in a logical order. Helpful tips for giving employee performance evaluations, and a very quick read.
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January 7, 2025Book Review: How To Say It Performance Reviews: Phrases and Strategies for Painless and Productive Performance Reviews by Meryl Runion and Janelle Brittain
In "How To Say It Performance Reviews," authors Meryl Runion and Janelle Brittain tackle the often daunting task of conducting performance reviews with a practical approach that combines effective communication strategies with a wealth of applicable phrases. This book is an invaluable resource for managers, supervisors, and team leaders seeking to conduct performance reviews that are not only productive but also pain-free.
One of the standout features of this guide is its emphasis on the importance of clear and constructive feedback. Runion and Brittain provide readers with phrases that can be tailored to various scenarios, ensuring that performance reviews can be direct yet sensitive. This is particularly helpful for those who might struggle with delivering feedback, as the authors offer a toolkit of language options that can ease the discomfort surrounding these discussions.
The book is structured logically, guiding the reader through the performance review process from preparation to execution. The authors share strategies for creating a positive environment that encourages open dialogue, which is crucial for fostering healthy workplace relationships. Readers will appreciate the emphasis on building rapport and trust with employees, making the performance review experience beneficial for both parties.
Additionally, "How To Say It Performance Reviews" addresses the nuances of different types of employee performances, providing specific phrases tailored to various situations, whether positive, negative, or in need of improvement. This detailed approach allows managers to articulate their thoughts clearly, helping to eliminate ambiguity and enhance understanding.
One of the book's strengths lies in its practical application. The authors understand the challenges that come with performance reviews and offer actionable strategies that can be immediately implemented. This hands-on approach ensures that readers not only learn the theory behind effective performance reviews but also gain the confidence to execute them successfully.
While the book is primarily focused on performance reviews, its insights extend to other areas of workplace communication as well. The skills and phrases taught can be applicable to regular feedback sessions, one-on-ones, and team interactions, making it a versatile resource for any professional looking to improve their communication skills.
In conclusion, "How To Say It Performance Reviews: Phrases and Strategies for Painless and Productive Performance Reviews" by Meryl Runion and Janelle Brittain is a must-read for anyone involved in the performance review process. With its practical phrases, effective strategies, and focus on fostering constructive dialogue, this book equips readers with the tools they need to navigate performance reviews smoothly and effectively. Whether you are a seasoned manager or new to leadership, this guide will enhance your ability to execute performance reviews that are both productive and supportive, ultimately benefiting your team's development and growth.
In "How To Say It Performance Reviews," authors Meryl Runion and Janelle Brittain tackle the often daunting task of conducting performance reviews with a practical approach that combines effective communication strategies with a wealth of applicable phrases. This book is an invaluable resource for managers, supervisors, and team leaders seeking to conduct performance reviews that are not only productive but also pain-free.
One of the standout features of this guide is its emphasis on the importance of clear and constructive feedback. Runion and Brittain provide readers with phrases that can be tailored to various scenarios, ensuring that performance reviews can be direct yet sensitive. This is particularly helpful for those who might struggle with delivering feedback, as the authors offer a toolkit of language options that can ease the discomfort surrounding these discussions.
The book is structured logically, guiding the reader through the performance review process from preparation to execution. The authors share strategies for creating a positive environment that encourages open dialogue, which is crucial for fostering healthy workplace relationships. Readers will appreciate the emphasis on building rapport and trust with employees, making the performance review experience beneficial for both parties.
Additionally, "How To Say It Performance Reviews" addresses the nuances of different types of employee performances, providing specific phrases tailored to various situations, whether positive, negative, or in need of improvement. This detailed approach allows managers to articulate their thoughts clearly, helping to eliminate ambiguity and enhance understanding.
One of the book's strengths lies in its practical application. The authors understand the challenges that come with performance reviews and offer actionable strategies that can be immediately implemented. This hands-on approach ensures that readers not only learn the theory behind effective performance reviews but also gain the confidence to execute them successfully.
While the book is primarily focused on performance reviews, its insights extend to other areas of workplace communication as well. The skills and phrases taught can be applicable to regular feedback sessions, one-on-ones, and team interactions, making it a versatile resource for any professional looking to improve their communication skills.
In conclusion, "How To Say It Performance Reviews: Phrases and Strategies for Painless and Productive Performance Reviews" by Meryl Runion and Janelle Brittain is a must-read for anyone involved in the performance review process. With its practical phrases, effective strategies, and focus on fostering constructive dialogue, this book equips readers with the tools they need to navigate performance reviews smoothly and effectively. Whether you are a seasoned manager or new to leadership, this guide will enhance your ability to execute performance reviews that are both productive and supportive, ultimately benefiting your team's development and growth.
July 11, 2026
I gave this book two stars because it didn’t offer much beyond what I was already doing. Much of the content felt like common sense and simply validated my existing approach to performance reviews rather than providing new insights or strategies.
About half of the book consists of sample phrases for different review scenarios. While some readers may find those helpful, I mostly skimmed through that section. It would have been much more useful if the phrases had been organized into their own table of contents or directory for quick reference. I also would have preferred more substance, practical guidance, and deeper discussion instead of so much space devoted to scripts.
If you’re new to conducting performance reviews, this may be a helpful starting point. But if you already have management experience, you may find there’s not enough new material to justify reading the entire book.
About half of the book consists of sample phrases for different review scenarios. While some readers may find those helpful, I mostly skimmed through that section. It would have been much more useful if the phrases had been organized into their own table of contents or directory for quick reference. I also would have preferred more substance, practical guidance, and deeper discussion instead of so much space devoted to scripts.
If you’re new to conducting performance reviews, this may be a helpful starting point. But if you already have management experience, you may find there’s not enough new material to justify reading the entire book.
March 9, 2025
Highly recommended by my dad, a long time corporate manager. As a new manager myself, I think there is a good amount to be learned, especially because I don't have my own style yet. I expect to use again come performance review time next year, when I'm all on my own. I think the "Great Phrases" section will be very helpful.
November 14, 2021
A good reference for re-reading before I write reviews, with examples of ways to phrase things.
May 31, 2013
The first three sections had some good ideas, some I'd heard before, others new. The last section on evaluation phrases, I ended up skimming.
February 24, 2014
A helpful reference. Giving feedback is so difficult, and this not only gives some great instructions on how to make criticism effective, but the sample sentences are useful for written reviews.
May 12, 2014
Read for a class. It felt really generic. Okay reference, but I doubt I'll refer to it.
Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews