Performance management proposal: Free template

Customize this free performance management proposal with Cobrief
Open this free performance management proposal in Cobrief and start editing it instantly using AI. You can adjust the tone, structure, and content based on your methodology, client size, and team goals. You can also use AI to review your draft — spot gaps, tighten language, and improve clarity before sending.
Once you're done, send, download, or save the proposal in one click — no formatting or setup required.
This template is fully customizable and built for real-world use — ideal for pitching performance review redesigns, goal-setting frameworks, feedback systems, or manager enablement programs. Whether you're an HR consultant, people ops advisor, or L&D strategist, this version gives you a structured head start and removes the guesswork.
What is a performance management proposal?
A performance management proposal outlines how you'll help an organization improve how it sets goals, gives feedback, measures outcomes, and develops talent. It typically includes scope, methodology, training components, tool recommendations, and alignment with culture or strategy.
This proposal creates clarity around how you’ll improve performance systems — and support both managers and employees in doing their best work.
A strong performance management proposal helps you:
- Define the goals of the engagement (clarity, accountability, growth).
- Explain your approach to reviews, feedback, and development.
- Align stakeholders on process changes and outcomes.
- Build trust with a clear plan for implementation and support.
Why use Cobrief to edit your proposal
Cobrief helps you write, improve, and deliver high-quality proposals — with AI to make every step easier.
- Edit the proposal directly in your browser: No formatting required — just click and start writing.
- Rewrite sections with AI: Improve clarity, adjust tone, or explain your framework in plain English.
- Run a one-click AI review: Spot unclear or repetitive content and sharpen it instantly.
- Apply AI suggestions instantly: Accept edits one-by-one or apply all changes in one click.
- Share or export instantly: Send via Cobrief or download a clean PDF or DOCX file.
Get your best ideas in front of clients faster.
When to use this proposal
Use this performance management proposal for:
- Redesigning performance review processes.
- Implementing OKRs, KPIs, or SMART goals.
- Introducing continuous feedback or 360 reviews.
- Training managers on feedback, coaching, and accountability.
- Responding to RFPs for performance or talent consulting.
It works well for teams of all sizes — from startups to global orgs.
What to include in a performance management proposal
Each section helps the client understand your approach, what you'll deliver, and how it will support employee growth and alignment:
- Executive summary: Outline the client’s challenges or goals (e.g., unclear goals, inconsistent feedback, disengagement), and how your strategy will improve clarity, motivation, and outcomes.
- Scope of work: Define what’s included — current-state audit, stakeholder interviews, framework design, tool selection, training sessions, documentation, and rollout support.
- Methodology: Share your approach — e.g., goal-setting models (OKRs, SMART), feedback frameworks (SBI, COIN), review cycles, calibration methods, and tools (e.g., Lattice, 15Five, Culture Amp).
- Timeline: Break the project into phases — discovery, design, pilot, training, launch — with estimated durations.
- Pricing: Present your pricing model — flat fee, hourly, or milestone-based. Include optional add-ons like manager coaching or post-launch check-ins.
- Terms and conditions: Cover confidentiality, data access, scheduling, and payment terms.
- Next steps: End with a clear CTA — like “Reply to confirm,” “Schedule a kickoff call,” or “Sign to proceed.”
How to write an effective performance management proposal
Your proposal should feel practical, aligned, and outcomes-focused:
- Focus on business and people outcomes: Tie better performance management to engagement, clarity, and retention.
- Be clear about scope and impact: Outline both tactical deliverables and cultural shifts.
- Use plain language: Avoid HR jargon where possible — clarity builds trust.
- Tailor to the client: Reflect their size, tools, industry, and performance pain points.
- Format cleanly: Use short sections, bullets, and headings to keep it skimmable.
- Make the next step easy: Guide them forward with a clear action.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Can I reuse this proposal across industries?
Yes — just tailor the language, examples, and frameworks to match the company’s culture and scale.
Does this work for teams with no formal performance process in place?
Absolutely. This template is ideal for both building from scratch and improving existing systems.
Should I recommend tools or systems?
Yes — clients value tool guidance (e.g., Lattice, 15Five, Leapsome) and it shows strategic thinking.
Is this proposal legally binding?
No — this is a proposal. You can attach a contract or statement of work if needed.
Can I export this as a PDF or DOCX file?
Yes — after customizing, you can download it instantly in either format.
This article contains general legal information and does not contain legal advice. Cobrief is not a law firm or a substitute for an attorney or law firm. The law is complex and changes often. For legal advice, please ask a lawyer.