As the year winds down, that dreaded performance review is probably on your mind. But hey, it doesn't have to be scary! In fact, it's a perfect chance to show off all the awesome work you've done and set yourself up for success next year.
Career coach Sarah Baker Andrus (who runs Avarah Careers) says her top tip is simple: come prepared with a plan.
"People think good work speaks for itself, but it really doesn't," Andrus explains. "You've got to be your own biggest fan, and when you advocate for yourself, you're way more likely to get what you want."
Here's how to totally nail your performance review:
Bring your wins to the table
Sarah suggests keeping a "kudos file" or "brag doc" throughout the year to track your accomplishments.
"You should save those emails where someone says, 'I couldn't have done this without you,'" Andrus says. "Jot down your biggest achievements as they happen."
Even if you haven't been keeping one, it's worth digging through your inbox before your review. And don't downplay the small stuff either, according to career coach Ana Goehner.
"Those 'thank you' notes from coworkers or your boss totally count," she says. "Your manager might not see all the behind-the-scenes work you do, so it's on you to speak up."
Many of us do extra stuff like cross-department projects without realizing how much time and effort it took, Andrus points out. "We often forget to mention going above and beyond, so document that work!"
Take feedback like a pro
How you handle feedback matters big time, Goehner says.
"Take care of yourself mentally and physically before you even walk into that meeting," she advises.
Getting feedback can be nerve-wracking, so Andrus suggests practicing some mindfulness techniques like box breathing beforehand.
If you already know where you could improve, bring it up first: "I know I said I'd handle X, Y, and Z. Here's what I could've done better, and here's what I'm working on now."
But sometimes criticism comes out of nowhere. When that happens, pause and take a deep breath.
Whether you agree or not, try saying something like, "Thanks for telling me that. My performance here means a lot to me."
Then follow up with: "What would better look like? I want to make sure I understand your expectations because I really want to improve, and I'm committed to this."
This shows you're open to growth and willing to learn.
Know what you want
Your review isn't just about getting feedback - it's also your chance to ask for what you need, Andrus says.
While you probably shouldn't demand a big raise or promotion during the meeting, it's a great time to talk about your goals for next year.
Consider asking for things like company sponsorship to attend conferences or take courses - it shows you're "interested in growing," Andrus says.
You could also ask for more one-on-one meetings with your manager to support your professional development, Goehner suggests.
"That's a way to set yourself up for success, for a promotion, for more visibility," she says.
The bottom line? Be clear about what you want, Andrus emphasizes.
"Managers aren't mind readers," she says. "If you want more responsibility or want to grow in a specific area, you have to say so."