How is an end-of-year one-on-one different from a performance review?

A performance review formally evaluates results against expectations, often tied to ratings or pay. The end-of-year one-on-one is a more personal, forward-looking reflection about growth, motivation, and goals. They complement each other, and the conversation makes any formal review feel less transactional.

What should I ask in an end-of-year one-on-one?

Ask what they are most proud of, what was hardest, what they learned, and how they feel about their role. Then look ahead: what they want to achieve and learn next year, and how you can support that. Open, reflective questions work best.

Should I discuss compensation in this meeting?

It can come up, but it is usually better handled in a dedicated pay conversation so the reflection is not overshadowed by money. If raises are decided separately, be clear about timing so the employee is not left guessing.

Free End of Year One-on-One Checklist Checklist

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End of Year One-on-One Checklist

Employee Name:

Manager Name:

Review Year:

Meeting Date:

Year in Review

Review accomplishments and milestones achieved throughout the yearAssess progress against annual goals set at year startDiscuss challenges faced and lessons learned from the yearGather the employee's own year-in-review self-assessmentReview 360-degree feedback or peer input if available

Performance and Compensation

Discuss annual performance rating and rating rationaleCommunicate merit increase or bonus information if applicableAcknowledge non-monetary contributions and cultural impactAddress any compensation concerns raised by the employee

Goal Setting for Next Year

Discuss organizational priorities and strategy for next yearCollaboratively draft preliminary goals for the coming yearIdentify stretch opportunities and high-impact projectsDefine success metrics and milestones for new objectivesAlign individual aspirations with team capacity and needs

Career and Development Planning

Review progress on this year's development plan objectivesUpdate career aspirations and discuss potential career pathsCreate or refresh the individual development plan for next yearDiscuss potential promotion timeline and readiness criteriaIdentify internal mobility or leadership development programs

Engagement and Appreciation

Conduct a holistic engagement and satisfaction check-inDiscuss what keeps them motivated and engaged at workAddress any concerns about the year ahead proactivelyExpress genuine appreciation for their contributions this year

The complete guide

Everything you need to know

01What Is the End of Year One-on-One Checklist?

The End of Year One-on-One Checklist frames the reflective conversation managers hold with each report as the year closes. It reviews the full year's accomplishments, challenges, and growth, celebrates wins, and sets direction for the year ahead. More reflective than a weekly check-in, it gives both people a chance to zoom out, acknowledge progress, and align on goals and development for the next twelve months.

02Why Use an End of Year One-on-One Checklist

The year's end is a natural moment to recognize effort and reset direction, but busy managers often let it pass with a rushed thank-you. A checklist ensures each person gets a genuine reflection covering achievements, lessons, career hopes, and goals for next year. Done well, it boosts motivation heading into January, strengthens the manager relationship, and feeds cleanly into formal reviews and planning.

03How to Use This End of Year One-on-One Checklist

Book a longer, unhurried slot and ask the employee to reflect on their year in advance. Start by celebrating concrete wins, then discuss challenges and what was learned. Explore how they feel about their role and where they want to grow. Close by drafting goals and development priorities for the new year, and record them so you can revisit progress in future check-ins.

End of Year One-on-One Checklist

End of Year One-on-One Checklist

Year in Review

Performance and Compensation

Goal Setting for Next Year

Career and Development Planning

Engagement and Appreciation

Everything you need to know

01What Is the End of Year One-on-One Checklist?

02Why Use an End of Year One-on-One Checklist

03How to Use This End of Year One-on-One Checklist

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