What do you do if your performance evaluations are hindering your career growth in executive management?

1 Assess the feedback

The first step is to analyze the feedback you receive from your performance evaluations. Is it fair, objective, and consistent? Does it reflect your actual achievements and contributions? Does it provide you with clear and actionable suggestions for improvement? Or is it vague, biased, or irrelevant? If you feel that the feedback is inaccurate or unfair, you need to challenge it and provide evidence to support your case. You can also ask for a second opinion from a trusted colleague, mentor, or coach.

2 Address the gaps

The second step is to identify and address any gaps or areas of improvement that the feedback reveals. Even if you disagree with some of the feedback, you should still acknowledge it and show that you are willing to learn and grow. You can create a personal development plan that outlines your goals, strategies, and timelines for enhancing your skills, knowledge, and competencies. You can also seek feedback from other sources, such as peers, customers, or external stakeholders, to get a more balanced and comprehensive perspective on your performance.

3 Showcase your value

The third step is to showcase your value and demonstrate your potential for executive management. You can do this by taking on more responsibilities, initiating or leading projects, solving problems, innovating, or mentoring others. You can also communicate your achievements and impact to your manager, senior leaders, and other influential people in your organization. You can use data, metrics, testimonials, or stories to highlight your results and contributions. You can also network and build relationships with key decision-makers and influencers who can support your career aspirations.

4 Seek new opportunities

The fourth step is to seek new opportunities that can help you advance your career in executive management. You can do this by exploring internal or external options that match your skills, interests, and goals. You can also look for opportunities to expand your horizons, such as cross-functional teams, task forces, committees, or special assignments. You can also consider pursuing further education, certification, or training that can enhance your credentials and qualifications. You can also update your resume, portfolio, or online profile to showcase your skills and achievements.

6 Move on if necessary

The sixth step is to move on if necessary. If you have tried all the previous steps and still feel that your performance evaluations are hindering your career growth in executive management, you may need to consider leaving the organization and finding a new employer that can appreciate and reward your talents and potential. You can do this by conducting a thorough job search, networking with people in your field or industry, and applying for positions that match your criteria and aspirations. You can also be respectful and professional in your departure, and maintain good relationships with your former colleagues and managers.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?