The 90-day performance review - a crucial milestone in an employee's journey within an organization. It's a chance for employers to assess an employee's progress, provide constructive feedback, and set goals for future growth. As a SHRM (Society for Human Resource Management) professional, you understand the importance of conducting thorough and effective performance reviews. In this article, we'll delve into seven essential 90-day performance review questions to ask your employees, helping you make the most of this critical evaluation period.

Why 90-Day Performance Reviews Matter
Before we dive into the questions, let's quickly discuss why 90-day performance reviews are so vital. This timeframe allows employers to:
- Assess an employee's initial progress and adjust expectations accordingly
- Identify areas where additional training or support may be needed
- Set realistic goals and objectives for the next quarter
- Foster open communication and build trust between the employer and employee
Seven Essential 90-Day Performance Review Questions
- What have been your greatest accomplishments since joining the company?
This question helps you understand what the employee is proud of and what they've achieved so far. It also gives you insight into their priorities and areas of focus.
- What challenges have you faced, and how have you overcome them?
This question assesses the employee's problem-solving skills and ability to adapt to new situations. It also highlights areas where they may need additional support or resources.
- How do you think you've aligned with the company's goals and objectives?
This question evaluates the employee's understanding of the company's vision and their role within it. It also helps you determine if they're on track to meet their performance goals.
- What skills or knowledge do you think you need to develop to succeed in your role?
This question identifies areas where the employee may require additional training or development. It also shows that you're invested in their growth and willing to provide resources to help them succeed.
- Can you describe a situation where you received feedback or constructive criticism? How did you respond?
This question assesses the employee's ability to receive and act on feedback. It also gives you insight into their willingness to learn and grow from criticism.
- How do you prioritize your tasks and manage your workload? Can you give an example?
This question evaluates the employee's time management and organizational skills. It also helps you understand their workflow and identify potential areas for improvement.
- What are your goals and objectives for the next quarter? How do you plan to achieve them?
This question sets the stage for the employee's future performance and helps you understand their expectations. It also gives you the opportunity to provide guidance and support to ensure they're on track to meet their goals.

Conducting Effective 90-Day Performance Reviews
To get the most out of your 90-day performance reviews, remember to:
- Prepare in advance by reviewing the employee's progress and performance data
- Create a comfortable and open discussion environment
- Take notes and provide specific examples to support your feedback
- Set clear goals and objectives for the next quarter
- Follow up regularly to ensure the employee is on track to meet their goals
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Final Thoughts
The 90-day performance review is a critical milestone in an employee's journey. By asking the right questions and conducting effective reviews, you can set your employees up for success, identify areas for improvement, and foster open communication. Remember to prepare in advance, create a comfortable discussion environment, and follow up regularly to ensure your employees are on track to meet their goals. With these seven essential questions, you'll be well on your way to conducting thorough and effective 90-day performance reviews.
We'd love to hear from you! What are some of your favorite 90-day performance review questions? Share your thoughts in the comments below!