Performance review h...

Performance review: how to prepare successfully

26 August 2022

Your performance review (also known as an appraisal meeting) is coming up. For many employees, this can feel stressful, but with the right preparation, it doesn’t have to be. In this blog, we’ll explain what a performance review is, what its purpose is, common questions you can expect, and three practical tips to help you prepare.

What is a performance review?

A performance review, or appraisal meeting, usually takes place once or twice a year with your manager or employer. It’s meant to be a two-way conversation, not a one-sided judgment. During this meeting, your progress, job performance, and collaboration with colleagues are discussed. You also have the chance to raise your own topics.

The purpose of a performance review

The main goal of a performance review is feedback:

How are you performing?
How is the collaboration with your team and manager?
What can be improved, and what goals can be set for the future?

Topics like your job satisfaction, personal development, and career opportunities are often part of the discussion as well.

Difference between a performance review and an evaluation meeting

A performance review is sometimes confused with an evaluation or assessment. The difference:

Performance review → a two-way conversation to improve both your performance and the company.
Evaluation/assessment → a judgment of your performance over a specific period, often linked to salary or contract conditions.

Common performance review questions

Questions will vary, but here are some you may encounter:

How do you feel about your job? Are you satisfied with your role?
Which tasks are going well, and which are more challenging?
What are you most proud of?
How do you think your work has gone overall?
What are your strengths and weaknesses?
How can you improve further in your role?
In which areas would you like to develop?
How is the collaboration with your colleagues and manager?
What is your contribution to the team?
How do you experience the work atmosphere?
Do you see points for improvement within the organization?

3 Tips to Prepare for Your Performance Review

1. Refresh your memory

If you’ve had performance reviews before, read the previous notes. This helps you remember what was discussed, the goals set, and how the meeting is usually structured. If it’s your first review, ask your manager what to expect.

2. Reflect on your performance

Think about your own performance, areas for improvement, your collaboration with colleagues, and your career development goals. Use the common questions above as a guide and prepare concrete examples.

3. Write down your points

It’s normal to feel a bit nervous, which can cause you to forget important points. Write down what you want to discuss and bring your notes with you to the meeting.

With the right preparation, your performance review can be a valuable and positive conversation. Would you like more tips? Get in touch with us, we're happy to help!

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