When self-evaluating, you need to determine which factors can
be improved by means of your own motivation and concentration,
and which require an outside hand.
The ability to evaluate your on-the-job performance is a
critical skill. You should evaluate yourself frequently to
keep yourself in check, though it is particularly useful
before you have a performance review with your boss. If you
learn to evaluate your performance and skills honestly,
you'll be able to determine whether a boss or coworker's
criticism is warranted, assess which steps you have to take
to receive a promotion, and (hokey as it might sound)
appreciate your ongoing professional growth.
Role-play
Imagine it's time for your performance review. What are you
going to say when asked to assess your performance thus far?
And what do you expect your boss will say? Just think, if you
work to improve some of your weaknesses now, you might avoid
the squeamishness of addressing these topics when it comes
time for your in-the-flesh review.
Outline specific objectives
Once you've identified areas that could use some
enhancement, outline specific objectives for how you plan to
implement your professional improvement. Run these objectives
by your boss-she'll appreciate the fact that you're setting
goals for yourself and may have valuable feedback. When you
do receive feedback, be gracious rather than defensive.
Why are you underachieving?
If you feel that you're drowning in work, just scraping by,
or simply performing below your boss's or your own
expectations, ask yourself why. Is your workload too heavy?
Are you managing your time wisely? Are you bored? In any of
these scenarios, communication with your boss is key. If
you're ready for a greater variety of tasks or more
challenging work, prove that you can handle the
responsibilities you've been given, and then ask what it
would take to spice things up a little.
Continuing education
Does your professional advancement require further
education? Would learning a new computer language or
enrolling in a management training course enhance your
performance or lead to more growth opportunities? When
self-evaluating, you need to determine which factors can be
improved by means of your own motivation and concentration,
and which require an outside hand. Investigate whether your
company is willing to pay for your ongoing education.
Are your goals aligned?
When carrying out your own performance review, be sure to
think micro (job skills) and macro (career goals). Decide
where you want to go in your career, and determine whether
this job is a step in that direction. Are your professional
goals aligned with the objectives that have been set for you
at work? Sometimes the macro-picture will help you prioritize
the micro-details. Is it time to revise your personal mission
statement?
