‘Tis the season!’ Many employees dread the performance review process. And I’m not saying they should not, I do relate to why there is panic when those two words are mentioned. However, performance reviews are not meant to crucify you, it is an opportunity to get constructive feedback about your work.
Now, a performance review session can either taste like strawberries and wine or lemon and garlic. It all depends on either party. To some managers, It is something they want to do and get done with it, so they will rush through the process.
If you want to get more out of your performance review, here are 5 important performance review questions that will make the session more engaging and helpful.
What is the most crucial responsibility of my role?
One thing that fails most employees is prioritization. Not knowing what to do at what time or what is more important at the moment could critically affect your performance at your workplace. One missed deadline is bound to paint a bad picture about you that may take a while to change. Ask your manager which key duties or assignments you should prioritize that are affecting your general performance.
This is the part where you note down these things. Please do not show up to your performance review without a pen and a notebook. With all the tension you have, there is a high possibility that you will forget most of the feedback your manager will give you.
To improve your productivity, begin your day by creating your tasks in order of urgency. This can be both a daily and monthly plan. It will help you keep on top of your duties without getting overwhelmed.
What are my greatest weaknesses in my assignments?
Your manager knows why your score is either above or below the pass mark. They know what is failing you and might have a better solution to it. Do not act like you know it all. Showing vulnerability here will actually be a good way to dive deep into your performance. Remember, weaknesses are not just bad things, they might be strengths that you have failed to control.
For example; you might love multitasking, and this may be the reason why you are not doing your assignments completely. You are probably taking on more duties and not getting anything done at the end of the day. Is multitasking bad? No, not all. Putting your weaknesses in check will eventually become your strengths.
Therefore, be open to getting this feedback from your manager and you will see the magic it will do to your next performance review.
What are the key performance indicators of my role?
Performance indicators apply to all roles, not just sales or marketing. If you are in the role of quality management systems, the quality and performance of the company processes during audits will be a performance indicator.
But to avoid the guesswork, engage your manager with performance review questions about the KPIs of your role. Why is this important? Imagine focusing all your abilities on an area that does not contribute to your general performance. Everyone knows that you are hardworking but yet the results say something else. Such a question will show your manager that you are willing to do better. Try it.
What has been the general performance of my team? How do you think we can do better?
If you are a manager, your team’s performance will always affect your performance as an individual. Do not ignore your team’s performance. Make it your responsibility to lift all your teammates with you as you strive to achieve departmental goals. After all, the credit will weigh heavily on your side.
Ask your manager how your team is performing, is there improvement or not. What have been your key highlights as a team, and what could you have done better? All these questions will actually show you the foundation of your scores in the performance review.
One of the most renowned sports in the world today is football. We see that when a team fails, the coach’s job is at stake. Why? He is not the one playing the game. But he is the leader of the team, he gives them the direction to follow in order to win. The constant training and name it all. He is tasked to identify the best players and take them on for the good of the team. So, as a manager, the performance of your team should be a key factor in your performance.
Can we discuss my pay raise and possible promotion?
Yes, yes, please. After a long day, all you need is some chilled ice cream sundae and a bath while you listen to your favorite songs. The same applies to you after crashing your goals and now the company has been featured on the top 10 best-performing companies in 2022. You need your reward and appreciation.
When asking for a salary raise, here are a few things to keep in mind. Is your company doing well financially at the moment? are there key achievements you have brought to the table? If the answer is yes, then go for it.
When all is said and done, you are now ready for your performance review. Do not forget that feedback is always important, and take it positively.