How to Prepare a Performance Review - Employee Edition
There is no need to fear a performance review. Your review is a two-way process during which you and your manager discuss your progress and contribution since your last review -- or if this is your first review since you started the job. The purpose of the evaluation is to highlight what you have done well, identify areas for improvement and to set plans and goals for the future. With careful preparation you will have the confidence to emphasize your strengths and request the support you need to develop and progress your career.
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Things You'll Need
- Document wallet
- Job description
- Last performance review
- Performance statistics
Instructions
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Start preparing for your next performance review well in advance. Make a note of tasks you have performed well and any significant achievements on a regular basis. Keep notes from managers or colleagues complimenting you on a job well done and place these in a document wallet. If you have been unable to complete a task -- or if the quality of your work has fallen short of expectations -- make a note of these incidents as well along with any mitigating causes.
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Note any events that impact your performance as soon as they occur. For example, if your manager asks you to train a new recruit and this takes you away from a critical task, make a note of the circumstance. Make a point of informing your manager of the likely consequences of such events as they occur, noting the time and date of each conversation.
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Assess your performance against your job description and any measurable targets that apply to your role. For example, if you have failed to achieve sales targets, production quotas or deadlines, determine why this occurred and consider any steps you -- or your employer -- can take to avoid future shortfalls. If you have consistently exceeded job requirements and targets, prepare to put forward a case for additional responsibility.
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Study your last performance review. Note any steps you have taken to work on areas for improvement highlighted at that time. Make a note also of any steps you have taken to build on your strengths. Document how you have set about improving your skills and knowledge by attending training courses, learning on the job or setting personal challenges. Describe how these initiatives have benefited your performance.
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Note any changes in organizational structure, practices or policy and prepare to discuss how these changes have impacted your performance. Do not confine yourself to the negative; your manager will be pleased to hear you describe how changes have benefited you and welcome your positive approach.
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Investigate the training and development opportunities available in your workplace or through independent providers, and make a list of any that would benefit you. Detail any changes in working practices that would help you to achieve your performance goals. Be proactive; the objective is to show that you are willing to make the effort to improve and suggest how your employer can support you in this.
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Write a list of bullet points dealing with the matters you wish to discuss at the meeting. Attach this to the front of the document wallet containing your supporting information and performance evidence.
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Set aside some quiet time to run through your bullet points, notes and performance evidence the evening before your review. Get a good night's sleep and approach your review with a clear head and the confidence that you are fully prepared.
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Tips & Warnings
When acknowledging any areas of underachievement, be prepared to immediately describe the steps you have taken -- or are taking -- to improve.
Do not blame others for performance shortcomings.
Avoid becoming flustered or defensive -- stay rational.
Do not expect your manager to agree with everything you say, and prepare to be challenged.
References
Resources
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