Want to ‘ace’ that appraisal? Here are some top tips for making it happen

Yes, it’s that appraisal time of year again and rather than feel worried, view it as the perfect opportunity to reflect on your career, plan for your next move and set the wheels in motion to be the person you want to be. 

If you prepare correctly, your appraisal will give you the opportunity to demonstrate your achievements, show how you’ve consciously engaged with the role, the business or your team, and convey how you would like your role to evolve in the future.

Here are some top tips for ‘acing’ that appraisal: 

PREPARE YOUR EVIDENCE – make a note of all that great stuff you’ve been doing throughout the year and back it up with testimonials, data to support your achievements, feedback from colleagues or quotes from members of the management team. Ask your colleagues for their thoughts on your performance; the things you’ve excelled at, and how.

DEVELOPMENT GOALS – this is the perfect opportunity to discuss your career goals (often a natural progression from your last appraisal) and agree realistic targets and expectations; have a clear idea of where you want to be, and how you’re going to get there. Remember that your boss is not a mind reader! Explain what you want, but be prepared to give something in return (an appraisal is a two-way street, after all) and don’t forget to show how your future role, or promotion, will benefit the company.

ASK THE RIGHT QUESTIONS – it’s important to ask the right questions as these will help you, and your boss, define your objectives for the year ahead. Ask about your personal development but also remember to ask about your wider development within the business. Questions you could ask 

• What steps do I need to take to reach the next level?
• What should I be doing to help with the company objectives or team priorities?
• Which courses and training should I consider and will my employer support me (financially or otherwise) with this training?  

ONE LAST THING – talking through your career goals, and aspirations, with friends and family will help you feel more confident, but to give you a clearer understanding of the path you need to follow.

Don’t forget, this is your opportunity to be the person you want to be so, go out and ‘ace’ that appraisal!