How can a program manager prepare for a successful performance evaluation?

1 Define your criteria

Before you start collecting evidence and data to support your performance, you need to clarify the criteria that will be used to evaluate you. These criteria may include the scope, quality, schedule, budget, and benefits of your program, as well as your leadership, communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills. You should review your program charter, objectives, and plan, as well as any performance agreements or expectations that you have with your supervisor, sponsors, and stakeholders. Make sure you understand how your program contributes to the organizational strategy and vision, and how your performance will be measured and reported.

2 Gather your evidence

Once you have defined your criteria, you need to gather your evidence to demonstrate your performance. This evidence may include quantitative and qualitative data, such as metrics, reports, dashboards, surveys, feedback, testimonials, awards, or recognition. You should focus on the outcomes and impacts of your program, rather than the activities and tasks. You should also highlight the challenges and risks that you faced and how you overcame them. You should organize your evidence in a clear and concise way, using charts, graphs, tables, or visuals to illustrate your points.

3 Reflect on your strengths and weaknesses

After you have gathered your evidence, you need to reflect on your strengths and weaknesses as a program manager. You should identify the areas where you excelled and where you need to improve. You should also consider the feedback that you received from your team, peers, sponsors, and stakeholders, and how it aligns with your self-assessment. You should be honest and objective about your performance, and acknowledge your achievements and mistakes. You should also think about your goals and aspirations for the future, and how you plan to pursue them.

4 Practice your presentation

Before you meet with your supervisor or evaluator, you should practice your presentation. You should prepare a summary of your performance, highlighting your key achievements, challenges, and learnings. You should also anticipate the questions that you may be asked, and prepare your answers. You should rehearse your presentation, using notes or cues, and timing yourself. You should also seek feedback from a trusted colleague or mentor, and refine your presentation based on their input. You should aim to deliver your presentation with confidence, clarity, and enthusiasm.

5 Engage in dialogue

During your performance evaluation meeting, you should engage in dialogue with your supervisor or evaluator. You should listen actively and attentively to their feedback, and ask clarifying questions if needed. You should also express your appreciation and gratitude for their support and guidance. You should avoid being defensive or argumentative, and instead focus on learning and growing from the feedback. You should also share your own feedback, and discuss your goals and expectations for the next period. You should aim to establish a mutual understanding and agreement on your performance, and document the key points and action items.

6 Follow up and follow through

After your performance evaluation meeting, you should follow up and follow through on the outcomes and actions. You should review the feedback and recommendations that you received, and identify the steps that you need to take to implement them. You should also communicate your progress and achievements to your supervisor or evaluator, and seek their feedback and support. You should also update your program plan, objectives, and metrics, and align them with the organizational strategy and vision. You should also celebrate your successes and recognize your team and stakeholders for their contributions.