'CLIFF'S NOTES' TO HELP WITH PERFORMANCE REVIEWS

Managers may be paid to think, but when it comes to evaluating the performance of their subordinates, they can apparently use some help finding the right words.At least that's what Neal Publications Inc. believes. The Perrysburg, Ohio, company just announced a sixth and expanded edition of "Effective Phrases for Performance Appraisals - A guide to Successful Evaluations." Under categories such as "initiative," for example, the $7.95 booklet offers phrases such as "is a self starter" and "excels in self-directing and self-pacing." Under "computer skills," options include "maximizes the benefits of computer technology" and "keeps abreast of new software applications."