DATE: Thursday, July 23, 2026
REMINDER: As you move through the remainder of the rating period, please continue to regularly monitor performance, document meaningful observations, and keep open communication with your employees. Consistent engagement and feedback are important as we approach the final stage of the cycle: performance closeouts.
Progress Reviews
The 2026 performance cycle requires three progress reviews. One of the reviews is to be documented around the midpoint of the year and two additional reviews at appropriate intervals throughout the cycle.
Documenting Progress Reviews
Non-USA Performance users should document the progress reviews via email and submit all three emails with the final performance appraisal. For USA Performance users, please follow these instructions:
Initial and Third Reviews
The initial and third reviews can be documented in the Notes section (upper banner) of the Performance Plan page.
Mid-Year Progress Review
The mid-year progress review should be documented in the Progress Review Notes, located in the Performance Plan under Part 2: Progress Review.
Important Closeout Preparation Guidance
As we approach the September 30 closeout date, please begin preparing for the final stage of the performance cycle. To help ensure a smooth and meaningful process, supervisors and employees should continue actively reviewing performance, maintaining clear documentation, and communicating openly. Organizing notes, examples of work, accomplishments, and relevant feedback will help everyone be ready for formal closeout discussions.
Resources:
- OPM Memorandum: Performance Management for Federal Employees
- Performance Management – OPM.gov
- IBC HR Operations Communications
Questions:
- Contact the Employee Relations and Labor Management Branch at IBC_HR_Operations_ERLR@ibc.doi.gov.