Take a strategic approach to your performance appraisal
As an executive support professional, you play a vital role in your organisation. Your work helps to keep the wheels of the business turning, and you play a crucial part in ensuring that things run smoothly.
At the end of the year, many businesses evaluate their employees' performance through a formal work or performance appraisal process.
The purpose of a performance appraisal is to provide employees with feedback on their work. It is also an opportunity for employees to discuss their career development with their managers.
As executive support professionals, it’s vital to take responsibility for ensuring that you get the opportunity of a performance appraisal and, when you do, make the most of it. Take a proactive approach in asking for feedback and using the appraisal process as an opportunity to discuss your career development.
Creating the right environment for an effective appraisal starts with you.
Above all, approach the meeting with a positive attitude and be prepared to talk about your achievements. Here are some tips for developing your "Performance Appraisal Strategy" and making the most of your discussion:
1. Be prepared
First, it's essential to understand that the appraisal process is not just about your manager giving you feedback on your performance. It's also an opportunity to assess your own performance and plan for your future development.
Framing the conversation around ‘development’ can establish the groundwork for how developing your skills can contribute more significantly to your organisation.
Therefore, when it comes to your appraisal, preparation is vital. Review your goals and objectives for the year and consider what you have achieved. Make a note of any challenges you have faced, changes to your position description and additional duties or change in the scope of the work you have been doing. What have you done that has made a positive impact on the business? Write down these points so you can refer to them during your meeting.
2. Do your research
Before your appraisal meeting, research the company's performance review process. This will help you understand what to expect from the meeting and give you an idea of the type of questions you may be asked. If you are unsure about the process, ask your HR representative for more information. It’s in everyone’s interest to have clear communication with this process as there is more to gain from a productive discussion.
3. Make a list of accomplishments
One of the best ways to prepare for your appraisal is to make a list of your accomplishments over the past year. This will help you demonstrate your value to the company and give you something to refer to during the meeting. The list you create is a practical tool for guiding your performance review discussions.
4. Set goals for the future
The appraisal process is also an opportunity to discuss with your manager your future goals as an executive assistant. Before the meeting, take some time to consider what you would like to achieve in the coming year. This could be anything from taking on more responsibility at work to developing new skills or knowledge. The scope for development in the executive support field is broad - choose how you wish to develop as an executive assistant or business support.
5. Be honest - Transparency is valued
During the appraisal, being honest about your performance is essential. Transparency in business is valued. Discuss your wins and challenges. If there are areas you need to improve, don't be afraid to raise these in the conversation. Likewise, if you feel you have excelled in certain areas, make sure you highlight this. This is an excellent opportunity to take advantage of this conversation and use it to showcase your value to the organisation. As you discuss, you can start to develop an overall plan for your learning and development needs in consultation with your manager.
Executive support professionals who are proactive in their career development are more likely to be successful.
6. Ask for feedback with an open mind
One of the most important things you can do during your performance appraisal is to ask for feedback. Whether positive or negative, feedback is essential for helping you improve your performance and achieve your goals. Having an open mind will allow you to receive the feedback constructively and use it to your advantage.
7. Listen and take note
During the appraisal, listening carefully to what your manager has to say is essential. Make sure you understand the feedback and, if necessary, ask for clarification. Take notes during the meeting so that you can refer back to them later.
8. Be open to change
If your manager has identified areas you need to improve, commit to addressing these. Likewise, if they have suggested new goals or objectives for you, be willing to embrace them.
9. Follow up
Don't forget to follow up after the appraisal meeting. Thank your manager for their feedback and reiterate your commitment to meeting your goals.
10. Take action
After your appraisal, it's important to take action. If there are areas you need to improve, start working on a plan to address them. Likewise, if you have set new goals, begin taking steps to achieve them. The sooner you start, the better your chances of success. If you haven’t taken advantage of our complimentary coaching session - now’s the time!
Remember, the appraisal process is an opportunity to improve your performance and further your career. By taking the time to prepare for it, you can make the most of this important meeting. Make it count!
What are some other strategies you have for acing your performance appraisal? Share them in the comments below.