Evaluating your performance is an important part of becoming better, therefore, it’s no surprise that each year you’re likely siting down with your manager to talk about how well you’re doing. Your performance review is an opportunity to see how you’re measuring up to the expectations of your role, make requests within reason and express any growing concerns. This blog post will share tips that will help you nail your next annual review.
DO YOUR HOMEWORK
Let’s be real, in your review there shouldn’t be any big surprises. Though, it’s up to you to do your homework and keep track of your wins because your manager is busy and won’t remember how you successfully landed a major partnership or helped the company gain more exposure to a particular audience. Do the numbers! If you found a way to help save $1,500 for a special event don’t be shy about bringing that up. Any time you save the company money or help the team increase visibility should be used as an opportunity to impress your boss. On the contrary, if you know you haven’t been doing your best work – come with solutions instead of excuses. Your boss will appreciate you for being self-aware and doing the work necessary to become better. Come prepared to your performance review with a (development plan) you intend to execute. Then share how you’d like to touch base in the next 90 days to see how you’ve improved. This shows initiative and reassures your manager that you want to do better.
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CREATING OPPORTUNITIES
The ball isn’t just in the employer’s court during an annual review. As mentioned, you should make requests and open the door for concerns you want to flag. For instance, if you’ve been responsible for taking over the work of a colleague that recently left don’t be afraid to share that you need a bit more support. Be prepared to share how you’d like to be supported so that your boss can meet your demands if they’re willing. Maybe a title change or raise is something you’d like. Do be afraid to ask increasing how much you make is an important strategy when it comes to building your wealth. According to a survey conducted by PayScale, less than half of the respondents reported asking for a raise in the current field. Not asking or negotiating your salary can result in making significantly less money over the course of your career. Money aside, think of other things you might want like the chance to attend a conference to build a skill or a more flexible schedule to maintain a better work-life balance.
PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT
Reflecting on your work and knowing what you want is only part of the preparation process. You need to practice so that when it comes time to discuss your performance you sound confident and ready to conquer the conversation. Ask a friend or family member to help you by doing some role playing. They’ll be able to give you feedback and help shake the nerves. Finally, relax. You’ve totally got this! At the end of the day, your job is there to help you learn and become a better professional.
Where there is a will, there is a way.