What are the most effective ways to prepare for a performance evaluation?

1 Review your job description

One of the first steps to prepare for a performance evaluation is to review your job description and the expectations and responsibilities that come with your role. This will help you to align your performance with the standards and criteria that your supervisor or manager will use to evaluate you. You can also identify any gaps or areas of improvement that you need to work on or communicate with your evaluator. Reviewing your job description will also help you to refresh your memory of your duties and achievements and provide evidence of your value and contribution.

2 Collect your accomplishments

Another important step to prepare for a performance evaluation is to collect and document your accomplishments and achievements throughout the evaluation period. This will help you to demonstrate your impact and results and highlight your strengths and skills. You can use various sources of information to collect your accomplishments, such as your calendar, emails, reports, feedback, awards, or testimonials. You can also use the SMART (specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound) framework to quantify and qualify your accomplishments and show how they align with your goals and objectives.

4 Prepare questions

Another effective way to prepare for a performance evaluation is to prepare some questions that you want to ask your supervisor or manager during or after the evaluation. This will show that you are engaged and interested in the evaluation process and that you value their feedback and guidance. You can ask questions about various topics, such as your performance, goals, expectations, challenges, opportunities, or career development. You can also use the questions to clarify any doubts or misunderstandings, seek support or resources, or negotiate your compensation or benefits.

5 Practice self-evaluation

A self-evaluation is a process of assessing your own performance and achievements based on the same criteria and standards that your supervisor or manager will use. It can help you to prepare for a performance evaluation by allowing you to reflect on your strengths and weaknesses, achievements and challenges, and goals and plans. You can use a self-evaluation form or template to guide you through the process and record your responses. You can also compare your self-evaluation with the feedback from your supervisor or manager and identify any discrepancies or areas of agreement.

6 Be positive and professional

The last but not least way to prepare for a performance evaluation is to be positive and professional throughout the process. This means that you should be respectful and courteous to your supervisor or manager and listen attentively and actively to their feedback and comments. You should also be open and honest about your performance and achievements and acknowledge your mistakes and failures. You should also be confident and proud of your accomplishments and achievements and express your appreciation and gratitude for the recognition and support. You should also be proactive and constructive in setting your goals and action plans for the future and seeking opportunities for learning and growth.

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?