Mid-year Connected Conversation

January 15 through March 15

The Mid-year Connected Conversation is a structured discussion between an employee and supervisor held midway through the performance year (January 15 through March 15). It provides dedicated time to reflect on accomplishments, discuss performance and feedback, review progress toward goals, identify development opportunities, and align on priorities for the remainder of the year.
More than a performance check-in, the conversation strengthens communication, supports employee growth, and keeps employees and supervisors aligned on expectations, goals, and organizational priorities.

Overview Video (coming soon!)

Mid-year Resources

  • Connected Conversation FormÌý
  • Cornerstone
  • Cornerstone Step-by-Step Guide
  • Discussion Guide
  • Full Step-by-Step Guide
  • Preparation Guide
Email performance@colorado.edu with questions or support

Register for Training

Coming Soon!Ìý

Why it Matters

Why is it important?

The Mid-year Connected Conversation helps create a culture of continuous feedback, development, and engagement. It gives employees and supervisors an opportunity to:

  • Recognize accomplishments and discuss progress toward goals.
  • Exchange constructive feedback and address challenges.
  • Align priorities and expectations for the months ahead.
  • Identify resources, support, and development opportunities.
  • Strengthen working relationships and foster open communication.
  • Connect individual contributions to team, department, and university goals.

By taking time to reflect, discuss, and plan, employees and supervisors can work together to support continued success and professional growth.

What is discussed?

The conversation should include four primary topics:

  • Key Successes and Priorities: Review accomplishments, challenges, and progress toward goals.
  • Campus Shared Values: Discuss how work and behaviors support Â鶹Ãâ·Ñ°æÏÂÔØBoulder’s shared values.
  • Support Needed: Identify resources, guidance, or obstacles that may impact success.
  • Development Areas: Explore growth opportunities, learning needs, and future development goals.

Additional topics such as well-being and career aspirations may also be discussed, as appropriate.

Documentation

The Mid-year Connected Conversation may take place during a regularly scheduled one-on-one meeting. Following the discussion, key takeaways, feedback, and next steps should be documented in Cornerstone or recorded using the Connected Conversation form.

Employee & Supervisor Action Steps

Employee Steps

  • Review your goals, feedback, and notes.
  • Complete the Mid-Year Connected Conversation Discussion Guide in Cornerstone or on the Connected Conversation form.(linked once finalized)
  • Prepare to discuss accomplishments, progress, challenges, and support needed.
  • Share key accomplishments and progress toward goals.
  • Discuss challenges, development opportunities, and any needed goal updates.
  • Be open to feedback and collaborate on solutions.
  • Review your supervisor's summary.
  • Confirm any agreed-upon updates to goals or priorities.
  • Continue regular check-ins with your supervisor.

Supervisor Steps

  • Review the employee's goals, progress, and submitted discussion guide answers.Ìý
  • Prepare feedback on accomplishments, performance, priorities, and development opportunities.
  • Encourage the employee to lead the conversation.
  • Provide feedback on performance, goal progress, strengths, and growth opportunities.
  • Discuss any updates to goals, priorities, or development plans.
  • Complete the supervisor summary in Cornerstone or on the Connected Conversation form.(linked when complete)
  • Document key discussion points, feedback, and any agreed-upon updates.
  • Continue regular check-ins and ongoing feedback conversations.