In this edition of Actual Words Used in Avery's performance review:

tone, unflinching, rash, tension, critical, not politically smart, more diplomatic, direct, brash, aggressive, friction, undercut, abrasive, not respectful, more constructive

Good news however!  This time they were all in the "things to improve" section.  Previously words like that had been mainly relegated to the "strengths" section, which I assume was for fear of retaliation. Conclusion: fewer people than previously are afraid I will kill them. That sounds like progress to me.

As usual, thanks to everyone for their awesome and thoughtful feedback. :)