How to Prepare for a Performance Review

Prepare for your performance review.

For many employees, the performance review is the only time they can express thoughts on company matters and bargain for a better salary. Therefore, it is imperative to prepare for this meeting with the boss. Getting feedback from your boss is only half of the equation. The other half is presenting your case for a positive review -- forms and notes from a performance review go in your personnel file, and it's wise to be prepared with information that shows you're an employee who deserves to be noticed, and even rewarded with a raise.

Things You'll Need

• Review forms

Instructions

1. Obtain the necessary paperwork from your supervisor or human resources department. Many companies require employees to fill out a self-assessment; others have a written process you must follow for the evaluation. Try to got the forms at least two weeks ahead of your review, if possible.

2. Gather evidence that you have done a good job throughout the year. Make a list of your contributions, achievements and intangible factors to develop a concrete case of why you deserve a favorable review and even better wages or a promotion. Use specific examples -- including dates and names of those involved.

3. Remind your boss in the weeks leading up your review of your achievements. What your boss can't remember, you won't get credit for. Be sure he sees you working hard and acting professionally. Realize he may be filling out your evaluation just before the review takes place, so be your best.

4. Search online for comparable wages and job titles. See what people on the street are making for your position, and make sure to bring this evidence to your review. Many bosses will give you more leverage if you can prove to them that you are underpaid.

5. Start making a list of your goals for the coming year. You should have some ideas with measurable outcomes, such as increasing your sales by 10 percent.

6. Make some notes about where your company has failed to provide either support, training or material you needed on the job. The review is the time to make it known that you need better tools to make your job more effective and your time more productive.

Tips & Warnings

• Be persistent in your quest to receive a good review. Make yourself look good and you may see good results.

• Don't give your boss an ultimatum or threaten to quit if you don't get a raise. Remain professional.

References

• Forbes: How To Ace Your Performance Review
• Bloomerg Businessweek: Performance Reviews - Do Be Prepared
• The Wall Street Journal: How to Ace a Performance Review