How to Benefit From an Annual Job Review

You can benefit from an annual job review by approaching it as an opportunity to stand out, point out successes and boost your career. Emphasizing your strengths, sticking to the facts and keeping a positive attitude can help your manager see you as a valuable employee worthy of a bonus or even a promotion. Here's how to make the most of your annual job review.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Begin preparing for the review by reflecting on your performance during the year. Review your calendar and e-mails to refresh your memory of successful projects, above average sales, solutions to problems and other contributions you have made to the company's success. Try to weave these accomplishments into friendly conversation during the review.

2. Write a summary of the highlights of the year to give them some context. Try to recall instances where your performance was above the requirements of your job. A written summary will help you organize your thoughts and minimize nervousness during the review.

3. Look over the company's standard review form, if it has one. Formulate answers to likely questions. Arm yourself with facts and numbers in meeting or exceeding sales quotas, budget compliance, deadlines and other goals. Share emails or notes from clients and colleagues that offer positive feedback on your performance during the review. Focusing on examples of your good work keeps the review fact-based.

4. Avoid becoming defensive if the reviewer presents any negative feedback, and take any criticism as constructive. Maintain a positive attitude and ask for specific examples and ways to improve in these areas. Show that you are interested in success in all aspects of the job.

5. Take some time after the review to reflect on the meeting and formulate a plan to improve in the coming year. Ask for a follow-up meeting to present your ideas. Providing productive solutions to problems and staying positive will impress a thoughtful manager.

Tips & Warnings

• Maintain a friendly attitude during the review.
• Don't read the summary of your accomplishment during the meeting. Maintain eye contact with the manager and refer to your summary from time to time for talking points.
• Try to keep in contact with your manager during the year rather than meeting only during the annual review.