Tips for Preparing for an Annual Work Review

Here are five expert steps to prepare for your review that will increase the odds of the meeting going well and creating a positive start to your next year on the job. (© RazvanPhotography- Radu Razvan 2008)

Remember your last review and what your manager identified as areas that needed improvement along with any new projects you proposed taking on. Be sure to address these fields specifically to show your commitment and ability to follow through. Then you can detail how you improved or tackled the additional responsibilities.

No one likes to hear bad news, but don’t be too quick to dismiss any negative criticism. Listen to what your manager has to say, and use it to your advantage to improve and grow during the next 12 months.

Turn feedback, both positive and negative, into action items.  Then you can develop a strategy to improve on each item in the year ahead and create a list of how to become a stronger employee. (Getty Images)

It can be hard to get face time with your manager so take advantage of his or her undivided attention during your review. Be sure to write down any questions or concerns to make sure you don’t overlook any pressing issues before the meeting ends.  

Create with a list of goals and skills you would like to achieve and learn in the year ahead and present it to your manager to help develop your role at the company.