7 Tips for Getting More from Your Performance Review: Seven Tips to a Better Review

Seven Tips to a Better Review

The performance review induces a case of nerves in most employees, but if you prepare properly, you can make your next performance review your best.  

To help, the experts at Salary.com have created a list of tips to ensure a better performance review.

1. Track your contributions

Keep a journal at your desk that you can update daily or weekly with your key accomplishments, positive feedback you have received and comments about areas where you can improve.

2. Compile your greatest achievements

Each month, review your journal entries and track your progress against your goals and areas that have been identified for improvement. When you prepare for your formal performance review, compile these in an easy to reference list and highlight the especially important improvements and accomplishments.

3. Research your market value

If you want to convincingly discuss what you are worth, conduct your own market research. You can start at Salary.com with the Salary Wizard to find national average salaries for your job description or you can get a more specific and comprehensive report if you purchase a Personal Salary Report.

4. Present your findings

Deliver to your manager a summary of your key results. It should be a document that looks professional and is well written. You may also want to include your self-assessed goals and areas for improvement for the upcoming review period.

5. Listen to your feedback

Be attentive and take notes as your manager provides feedback or outlines your goals for the upcoming review period - don't be defensive, accept it as an opportunity to develop your professional skills.

6. Confirm the accomplishments and areas that could be improved

After you discuss your accomplishments and areas for improvement, confirm with your manager that you clearly understand each point. Then focus the conversation on activities you should undertake to ensure your contribution during the next review period. This will help you and your manager agree on the most direct path to achieving your goals.

7. Create a plan to achieve your goals

After you have completed your performance review with your manager, it is time to prepare for your next review. Start by creating a list of your key goals and objectives, and then formulate an action plan to achieve those goals by your next performance review. Make sure your goals are aligned with company goals and priorities.