How to Prep for a Performance Review

I didn't like performance reviews early in my career. Perhaps, it was because I was a poor student for a few years in junior high, or I take criticism hard. I used to get so nervous about them.

Then, when I was working at an arts centre, where I knew I was doing great, I decided to see it as an opportunity to talk about what I'd like to do more of. I wasn't looking for a raise or promotion. I was looking for the opportunity to learn new skills and be part of some larger projects.

Once I saw the performance review as an opportunity to talk about my future with the company, I stopped losing sleep over it. Here are five ways you can prep for your performance review to show you care about your job and the company.

01. Keep track of your accomplishments.

I used the email & desktop folders. Every time you get praise or complete a project put it in that folder. Forward to your personal email too.

02. Review the company's annual plan 

Research what your company and department are aiming to do. If accomplishments were celebrated, pinpoint specific examples of how you contributed to that success.

03. Review the plan looking for growth areas you would like to be part of.

What role could you do? Are you qualified to help, or do you require training/mentorship?

Read the other two steps to prepare for a performance review here.

About Kerri Twigg

I help people use their stories to grow their careers, whether they aim for a “job-job” or running their own business. And, if you’re not sure what kind of work, I help with that too. Stories + Strategy.

These days, growing your career requires a career brand. People who can share their strengths through compelling stories, on paper, online and in-person land the work.

That’s what I’m here to help you with. I help you figure out your current career brand (through deep listening), your ideal role (or client) and what career stories to tell to land the work. And we do this with individual attention on you, your values and experiences.

I don’t tell everyone this, but I am allergic to formulas that make you look like everyone else. You’re more interesting than that.

I have been helping people find and share their stories with confidence for nearly 20 years, 7 in the career management sector. I love this work.

You can see more at Career-Stories.com