Getting the most out of your annual review

It’s that time of year; it only comes once a year. Yes! It’s your annual performance review. Really, it is the one time of year that you get to pat yourself on the back and provide examples of the things you have done over the course of the past year that justify a salary increase, and in some cases, a promotion. There are some things you can do to ensure that you receive the recognition you deserve; a lot of this is dependent on what you do to prepare.

And the way the economy is going the need to demonstrate your value is more critical than ever.

Top Ten Tips

1. Make sure that you track your achievements and contributions commencing from the last review you had. This will ensure that you don’t omit key projects or achievements. Keep good notes so that you are able to recall information and present it during the appraisal process. Remembering it as you walk out of your bosses office will result in noting but regret.
2. If you complete a project and can get a note or letter from a superior detailing the positive contribution you made that is a wonderful way to provide backup that other people found your contributions valuable.
3. Keep yourself organized; track project dates and contributions so you can quickly reference a particular situation where you added value. If business increased, present figures supporting the organization’s growth.
4. Present your supporting documentation three or four weeks before your scheduled review date. Oftentimes paperwork is completed for salary and other increases prior to the scheduled review date. In an effort to influence any decisions, submit your evidence early.
5. Display information in a clear and easy to understand format. If you want to call attention to certain details, you might highlight phrases or numbers that demonstrate results.
6. Establish the tone of your performance review discussion by presenting the things that you feel made the most impact. Establish a positive and productive discussion to highlight the things you want to make known.
7. Recognize that your superior might reference some things that you need to improve upon. Do not make the interaction controversial in any way. Instead, proactively indicate how you will make improvements in areas referenced. Offer solutions rather than excuses.
8. Demonstrate your willingness to pursue professional development, training courses or certifications to show your commitment to ongoing learning. It will also reveal your willingness to continue to expand your skills.
9. If you are not satisfied with your increase, it is fine to indicate as such. You can request a review again in six month’s time to see if there is an opportunity for an unscheduled pay increase.
10. Take constructive feedback well and don’t become defensive. Set the tone for the positive year to come.

And don't spend it all in one place -

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Comments and feedback are requested and desired; and you are welcome and encouraged to submit questions to thecareerdoctor.

Debra Wheatman, CPRW, CPCC is the founder and Chief Career Strategist of ResumesDoneWrite, a premier career services provider focused on developing highly personalized career roadmaps for senior leaders and executives across all verticals and industries.

Debra can be reached at -
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