Getting the most out of your performance review

Preparing for a performance review can often be daunting process, but if you give yourself plenty of time and prepare they can be extremely beneficial.

Going in with a clear set of objective and a good understanding of your own personal achievements will help as a starter, and if you follow the following tips you can ensure you get the most out of your own performance review.

1. Questions:

Prior to every performance review you should ask yourself a few simple questions. 

• Did I hit my targets?
• If so, how did I ensure that I hit them
• If not, why not?

2. Preparation:

Ensure that you prepare properly for your review – complete the information that you need to complete ahead of the meeting and have an agenda so that you are clear on the things that you would like to get from the meeting.

3. Refer to previous reviews:

Look back at your previous month’s review, look at the targets that were set and think about what steps you have taken to reach those targets. It is important that each month you prove you are doing everything in your power to hit targets.

4. Be honest:

It is important that you are honest with yourself, that you discuss any areas for improvements and that you ask for support when you need it so that you are developing yourself and also working towards turning potential weaknesses into strengths.

5. Have clear goals:

Make sure you know your own personal goals, long and short-term to show your commitment and desire to grow with the business. By having knowledge of where you want to be and by when, it will help your manager set you goals to work towards to help you achieve what you want.

6. Don’t be defensive or aggressive:

It is important that you are not being defensive, that you do not take things personally during your performance review. Ensure that you are not blaming others. Don’t make excuses, and don’t argue or overreact. Also do not complain without offering improvements – think of solutions, not just the problems.

7. Be open to feedback:

Make sure that you are open to feedback and that you take it on board positively, ensure that you are being open about the professional development that you have in mind and use effective non-verbal communication. Take not of your posture and eye contact, and take everything that is being said as a positive and room for development rather than a negative.

8. Get to work:

Following your review, make sure that you are referring to it on a regular basis so that you are working towards your goals and ensuring that you hit the targets that have been set for you so that you are performing to the best of your abilities.

Throughout my time at Sellick Partnership I have found our performance reviews helpful in helping me set goals for myself, motivate me when times get rough and also a chance to look back at the great work I have done previously. I would advise anyone looking to advance on their career to take performance reviews seriously, and get as much as you can out of them.

For further career development advice, check out our insights page or contact us!