3 Mistakes To Avoid During Your Performance Review

Forbes

21-06-2025

3 Mistakes To Avoid During Your Performance Review
When we think of performance reviews, we usually assume it's all the manager's job. We just wait for their judgment of our work. But performance reviews should be a collaborative process. You have the opportunity to review your progress, highlight your wins, and be open about your goals and even struggles.
According to Gallup, however, only 20% of employees think their performance reviews motivate them to excel in their work. The good news? You can take control or at least play an active role for a more meaningful conversation with your boss. Here are some mistakes you can avoid during your performance review and leverage it to level up your career.
Not Being Prepared
Performance reviews are no ordinary events where you simply show up and listen. You should go there equipped with all the records you need to show your growth and achievements. Meeting your boss empty-handed means a missed opportunity for your career. So, before the review, have your brag sheet ready. List your wins, including those times you received commendations from big clients, exceeded the team's target, and mentored new members.
Don't forget to record those moments you've stepped up and led projects, solved recurring problems, or introduced new tools that increased the team's efficiency. By putting everything into writing, you can easily address your manager's questions or clarifications with real numbers and specific scenarios.
Speaking of questions, you should also prepare thoughtful responses. Anticipate being asked about your areas for improvement, action plans, and goals for the next quarter or year.
Your manager might also ask you about skills you want to develop, your experience with the team, and how else you can support each other. By reflecting on these questions, you can express your insights well. Prepare your own questions as well to gain more valuable input from your manager.
Not Selling Yourself
Being ready with your records is one thing; selling yourself is another. The latter is crucial, especially if you're eyeing a promotion or a raise. But even when you're not, you should still know how to advocate for yourself confidently and professionally. This can lead to more opportunities, like flexible schedules, better projects, and greater confidence from your boss.
So highlight your contributions to the team and how they made a difference. For example, you can say, 'I'm grateful to have helped increase the team's sales by 30% through personalized welcome and milestone packages, which made new and existing customers feel valued.'
Mention the kudos you received from colleagues, bosses, or clients. For instance, 'I'm honored to be praised by such a meticulous client who even committed to giving us more projects.' More than the flex, you're showing the value you bring to the team and how you can't be easily replaced.
Not Even Having One
Ideally, your manager should give you regular performance reviews. But this may not always be the case. In fact, 47% of employees get feedback only a few times a year or even less. A Gallup survey also showed that 95% of managers aren't happy with their performance review systems.
If the company you're in doesn't have an organized review system, or worse, doesn't do performance reviews at all, be proactive. Politely ask for a meeting with your manager, so you can talk about your progress, challenges, goals, and timelines. For example, you can say, 'I'm wondering if we could have a quick feedback session next week to make sure I'm aligned with the team's goals and expectations.'
It's not about being demanding but rather taking the initiative to stay on track with your responsibilities and long-term growth. Even without regular reviews, make sure to record informal feedback you've received along the way so you have something to start with.
Performance reviews may sometimes feel more discouraging than inspiring, but you can use them to your advantage with the right approach. Do not make the mistake of coming unprepared, not knowing how to sell yourself, or simply accepting the absence of a review. These evaluations are not threats but opportunities, so welcome them!