How to get the most from your performance appraisal

Performance reviews are a stressful experience for most employees. Rather than rushing to get your review over and done with as quickly as possible, make the most of your appraisal by seeing them as the opportunity to discuss your performance and highlight what you have been able to accomplish in the past year.

Here are 5 top tips to get the most out of your performance review in order to show how truly valuable you are to your manager.

1. Prepare for your appraisal

If you are well prepared for your appraisal you will feel more confident so ensure you have carefully prepared examples of your work and performance and collated all the facts before going into the meeting. Appraisals can be make-or-break moments in your career and as such it is vital to prepare for them as you would for an exam or important interview.

2. What do you want to achieve?

Think about what you want to achieve in your career over the next few years and how your current employer can help you get there. Ensure you take the time to think about possible training options, additional industry qualifications you are interested in, or how you can gain different experience to broaden your skill base, things that will help your career in the long term.

3. Compromise

Be prepared to accept that your employer may not be able to meet all your requests and think about what you are willing to accept. Consider compromises that will ensure win-win outcomes for the appraisal. For example, agree to higher performance targets in exchange for the opportunity to gain access to specific training programmes.

Think about what you want to achieve in your career over the next few years and how your current employer can help you get there. 

4. Speak up

If you have ideas on how your role, the team, or a specific process within the business could be more efficient, then this is your opportunity to speak up. You should take this chance to express your interest in taking on extra responsibility – this is a sure way of getting ahead, being noticed and showing your commitment to the company and your position within it.

Anything that is discussed in an appraisal should not come as a surprise to either party – do not store up grievances  – these should be discussed as and when they happen but appraisals are a good time to re-iterate any issues that have occurred throughout the course of the year.

5. Be factual

Above all, remember that a performance appraisal is a business discussion. Avoid emotive language and responses to the constructive feedback you may receive. Focus on factual reasons why you should be considered for a pay rise or a promotion, not just because somebody else received one. This is your best opportunity to convince your employer of the value you have contributed to the business and how you can continue to contribute in the future.

Performance appraisals should be a positive experience and an opportunity for you to communicate honestly with your manager about your career progression. Take ownership of the process and the rewards should follow.

Looking to get a pay rise?

Read our tips on how to negotiate your salary or contact our team of consultants to find out what you're worth.