12 tips for better employee performance reviews

It's that time of year again when employees all over the country brace themselves for the annual performance review. For many, it's a dreaded process - one that can often feel like a judgment on their worth as a person. But it doesn't have to be that way. If you go into the review process armed with a few tips, you can make sure that both you and your managers get the most out of it.

Here are twelve tips for better employee performance reviews:

1. Come prepared

One of the best ways to ease your nerves and set yourself up for success is to come prepared. Review your previous performance goals and objectives, and think about what you've accomplished over the past year. This will help you identify any areas where you could have improved, and it will give you a chance to reflect on your accomplishments.

2. Be honest

It's important to be honest with your manager during your performance review. If you try to sugarcoat your achievements or downplay your weaknesses, it will only hurt you in the long run. Be honest about your successes and failures, and be willing to talk openly about areas where you could improve.

3. Don't take it personally

Performance reviews are not a personal attack. They are simply a way for your manager to give you feedback on your work over the past year and help you set goals for the coming year. Try to take any constructive criticism in stride, and use it as an opportunity to learn and grow.

4. Be proactive

If you have any concerns about your review session, don't wait for your manager to bring it up. Be proactive and schedule a meeting to discuss them. This will show that you're serious about making improvements and that you're willing to work with your manager to reach your goals.

5. Listen more than you talk

During your performance review, it's important to listen more than you talk. If you are busy defending yourself or trying to make a case, you will miss out on the valuable feedback your manager is trying to give you. So, take a deep breath, and try to listen with an open mind.

6. Keep an open mind

Your performance review is not the time to get defensive. If your manager has constructive feedback for you, try to take it on board with an open mind. It can be difficult to hear that you need to improve in certain areas, but remember that your manager is trying to help you be the best that you can be.

7. Ask questions

Don't be afraid to ask questions during your performance review. If you're unclear about something, or if you want more information, just ask. It's better to get clarification than to make assumptions that could lead to misunderstandings later on. This will also show that you're engaged in the process and that you're eager to learn.

8. Be specific

When you're discussing your accomplishments with your manager, be as specific as possible. Instead of saying, "I did a great job this year," try to share concrete examples of what you did and why it made a difference. This will help your manager to understand the impact of your work, and it will also make it easier for them to give you specific feedback.

9. Set goals

One of the most important parts of the performance review process is setting goals for the future. Talk to your manager about what you'd like to accomplish in the coming year, and ask for their input on how you can best achieve those goals. This will help to ensure that you're both on the same page, and it will give you something to work towards in the coming months.

10. Ask for feedback

Your performance review is also a good opportunity to ask for feedback from your manager and your peers. If there's something you're struggling with, or if you're not sure what your manager expects from you, this is the time to ask. By opening up the lines of communication, you can ensure that everyone is on the same page going forward.

11. Take it seriously

Your performance review is an important part of your professional development, so it's important to take it seriously. This is an opportunity to reflect on your work over the past year and set goals for the future. So, treat it as such, and give it the time and attention it deserves.

12. Follow up

Don't forget to follow up after your performance review. If there are action items that you need to address, make sure you do so in a timely and efficient manner. And if you have any questions or concerns, don't hesitate to reach out to your manager for clarification.

By following these tips, you can make sure that your performance review is a positive and productive experience for both you and your manager. With a little preparation and a willingness to listen, you can use this process as an opportunity to improve your work and set yourself up for success in the coming year.