What Is a 30-60-90 Day Review?

Setting New Employees Up for Success from Day One

Starting a new job is exciting—but it can also be overwhelming. That’s why smart organizations use a 30-60-90 day review to help employees hit the ground running, stay on track, and thrive in their new role.

What Is a 30-60-90 Day Review?

A 30-60-90 day review is a structured check-in process that supports new employees during their first three months on the job. Typically led by the employee’s direct manager, it’s designed to:

Set clear performance expectations
Monitor progress and development
Identify training or support needs early
Strengthen communication between manager and employee

Rather than waiting for the traditional annual performance review, this approach breaks the onboarding period into three milestone conversations—at 30, 60, and 90 days—to ensure alignment, engagement, and clarity.

What Happens at Each Stage?

30 Days: Learning and Adjusting

Review onboarding experience and initial training
Clarify expectations, responsibilities, and key goals
Address any early challenges or roadblocks

60 Days: Developing and Contributing

Assess performance and progress toward goals
Offer feedback and coaching
Identify strengths and areas for improvement

90 Days: Performing and Planning Ahead

Evaluate overall performance and cultural fit
Discuss long-term goals and development plans
Determine next steps for success in the role

Why It Matters

For employees, this process builds confidence, encourages open communication, and helps them understand how their work contributes to the company’s mission. For managers, it provides structure, reduces early turnover, and ensures accountability from the beginning.

In fact, incorporating 30-60-90 day reviews can enhance your entire performance management system.

Need help strengthening your onboarding and performance review process? Consult HR Services can help you implement HR practices that actually work.

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Final Thoughts

The 30-60-90 day review isn’t just a “nice to have”—it’s a strategic way to help new hires succeed and contribute faster. It’s proactive, not reactive. And when done right, it creates a win-win for everyone.