In such circumstances it is normal for many us to become jittery at the annual performance review. How do you get a positive review? Here is a check list.
Write it down: Make a list of everything you are doing. Your performance might have been documented. Yet your list may remind your manager of what he had forgotten or overlooked.
Your list should also mention your goals and accomplishments supported by documentation. It should also mention the difficulties faced in reaching certain goals.
Even if you are not asked to make self-review, better look at your previous review and say how you would rate your performance. Your review should look like a balance sheet and it should mention what you have done to improve your value to the company.
Finishing touches: If you have any projects in limbo, this is the time to give finishing touches to them. It may need extra effort, but do it so that you can include a completed project in your job summary. If it is in progress, give a detailed status of the project. Don't forget to speak of any external issues that might de delaying the project.
Don't try flattery: Kissing up to the boss is a bad idea. Many managers don't like sycophants. Such efforts backfire.
Honest approach: Most of us make mistakes. We might have overlooked a task or a project is getting delayed. Or some personal problems might have affected our performance. Whatever may be the issue you must be honest. You should summarize what happened and how the issue is resolved. Also talk about what had not gone well and what did you learn from it.
Don't press the panic button: Take proactive steps that put you at ease during the annual review. If you are getting feedback once in a year only, seek mini-reviews of your performance. Seek monthly or quarterly meetings. During such meetings, you can discuss your progress and any other issue or resources you need.
Keep a separate file for documents needed for your next review. Don't forget to keep the document showing project completion or its progress. Also keep documents of commendations from co-workers or clients.
If your company has a program providing educational opportunities for employees, go for it. If available, take an option for career enhancement courses online or attend a local college. Many companies reimburse tuition fees. The knowledge and skills you gain will be helpful at the review time.
