If you’re in a management or HR position, you’ve likely asked team members to complete a self-appraisal form during performance review season. But reviewing these forms thoughtfully can be just as important as filling them out. Employee self-appraisals offer insight into how individuals perceive their contributions, areas for development, and career aspirations.
Responding to self-appraisals with care not only helps employees feel heard, but it also lays the foundation for productive development conversations. Below are 10 examples of self-appraisal comments from employees, accompanied by appropriate manager responses to guide effective two-way feedback.
Top 10 Self-Appraisal Comments by Employees with Sample Responses
Example 1: Can you describe how you handle communication in the workplace?
Employee: I believe I communicate clearly and effectively with my team and external stakeholders. For instance, I recently handled a client concern regarding delivery delays. I kept the client informed throughout the process, which helped preserve the relationship and even led to positive feedback.
Manager response: Your communication style has been both professional and consistent. I appreciate how you kept the client informed without compromising transparency. I’d like you to share your approach with newer team members during our next knowledge-sharing session.
Example 2: Are you comfortable working in a team environment?
Employee: Since transitioning to remote work, I’ve had to adjust how I collaborate with my team. I’ve taken steps to be more proactive by initiating weekly check-ins and using tools like Slack to stay connected.
Manager response: It’s great to see how you’ve adapted to remote teamwork. Your efforts to maintain communication show strong initiative. Let’s look at ways to further strengthen virtual collaboration, perhaps through project-based teamwork exercises.
Example 3: How do you demonstrate leadership at work?
Employee: I often take the lead in team meetings, especially during project kick-offs. A recent example was when I coordinated a product launch, delegating tasks and ensuring the team met all deadlines.
Manager response: Your leadership during the product launch was commendable. It’s clear that your planning and coordination skills are valuable assets. I’d like to involve you more in cross-functional leadership projects moving forward.
Example 4: What motivates you at work?
Employee: I’m most motivated when I can see the impact of my work. Positive client feedback or when a campaign achieves its targets really energises me.
Manager response: It’s clear that recognition and results drive you. We’ll aim to provide more real-time performance feedback and keep you engaged with client-centric projects that highlight your strengths.
Example 5: Do you feel supported by your manager?
Employee: I feel generally supported but think there could be more regular check-ins. Sometimes I feel out of the loop with company updates or departmental changes.
Manager response: Thank you for the honest feedback. I’ll start hosting monthly one-to-one meetings to keep communication open and ensure you feel more connected to the wider organisation.
Example 6: How do you handle deadlines and time management?
Employee: I pride myself on meeting deadlines consistently. I prioritise tasks using the Eisenhower Matrix and always build in buffer time for unexpected issues.
Manager response: Your structured approach to time management is exemplary. I’d like to explore how you could mentor newer staff who may benefit from learning your methods.
Example 7: What are your strengths in your current role?
Employee: I’m analytical and detail-oriented. In Q1, I identified a trend in client feedback that helped us refine our service offering and improve client satisfaction scores.
Manager response: Your analytical thinking has clearly contributed to measurable business improvements. Let’s look at how we can use this skill set in upcoming strategy sessions.
Example 8: What are your professional development goals?
Employee: In the next two years, I’d like to move into a team leader role. I’m already taking an online course in management and have been shadowing senior staff where possible.
Manager response: It’s encouraging to hear about your proactive steps. I’d like to create a development plan that includes mentoring and opportunities to lead smaller project teams.
Example 9: Are there any aspects of your role you find challenging?
Employee: At times, I find it difficult to balance urgent requests with long-term tasks. It’s something I’m working on by blocking time for deep work.
Manager response: I appreciate your self-awareness here. Let’s explore time-blocking strategies together and adjust workloads where possible to help you manage both priorities more effectively.
Example 10: How do you contribute to innovation in your role?
Employee: I enjoy thinking creatively, especially when faced with repetitive tasks. Recently, I suggested automating part of the data collection process, which saved hours of manual work.
Manager response: Your initiative to innovate is valuable. I’ll make sure we include you in the digital transformation task force so you can continue to share ideas and help streamline processes.
