What are the best ways to leverage performance evaluations for a raise or promotion in 3D Printing?

1 Prepare your portfolio

One of the first things you should do before your performance evaluation is to prepare a portfolio of your 3D printing projects. This should include samples of your work, such as models, prototypes, or finished products, as well as documentation of your process, such as sketches, CAD files, or code. Your portfolio should showcase your skills, creativity, and problem-solving abilities in 3D printing. It should also highlight your achievements, such as meeting deadlines, exceeding expectations, or improving quality or efficiency.

2 Highlight your value

Another important thing you should do during your performance evaluation is to highlight your value to the organization. This means showing how your 3D printing work contributes to the goals, vision, and mission of the company. You can do this by providing evidence of your impact, such as customer feedback, sales figures, cost savings, or awards. You can also demonstrate your value by emphasizing your unique selling points, such as your expertise, experience, or certifications in 3D printing.

3 Negotiate your terms

The final thing you should do after your performance evaluation is to negotiate your terms for a raise or promotion. This means being clear about what you want, what you deserve, and what you can offer in return. You should also be prepared to handle objections, counteroffers, or rejections. To negotiate effectively, you need to do some research on the market rates, industry standards, and company policies for 3D printing professionals. You also need to have a backup plan in case your request is denied or delayed.

4 Seek feedback and improvement

Even if you get a raise or promotion, you shouldn't stop there. You should always seek feedback and improvement for your 3D printing work. This means asking for constructive criticism, suggestions, and advice from your manager, peers, or mentors. You should also set SMART goals for yourself, such as learning new skills, taking on new challenges, or expanding your network in 3D printing. By seeking feedback and improvement, you can show your commitment, enthusiasm, and growth potential in 3D printing.

6 Keep learning and innovating

The last way to leverage your performance evaluations for a raise or promotion is to keep learning and innovating in 3D printing. This means staying updated on the latest trends, technologies, and techniques in 3D printing. You should also experiment with new ideas, tools, or materials in 3D printing. You should also seek opportunities to collaborate, mentor, or teach others in 3D printing. By keeping learning and innovating, you can demonstrate your passion, curiosity, and adaptability in 3D printing.

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?