Really? Again? Can We Just Skip It This Year?

It's that time of year. Turkey?  Ham? A Christmas Carol? Well, of course. However, we enjoy those traditions, right?  How many of you can say you enjoy this tradition: writing your self-appraisal in preparation for your performance evaluation. Now admit it, you enjoy this tradition as much as trimming your tree!?!

OK, so it's not our favorite activity of the year. Truly, we often avoid and delay this task, even when we've accomplished many things that we should be proud of.

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Why, then, does it feel so painful?

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• To start, you have to dig deep, all the way back to January, to recall what you accomplished.
  

 

• Then you have to ensure you have data to explain these results as well as the original goal or expectation.
  

 

• Additionally, it's not in most people's nature to "brag" - and to some, this feels like a bragging session.
  

 

• Finally, so many people are trying to wrap up their projects prior to the holidays so they can meet those deadlines - and incorporate it into their self-appraisal.
  

Even though some organizations (Microsoft, Accenture, GE, Gap, and Adobe, to name a few) are "doing away" with annual performance evaluations, most companies are taking a wait and see attitude - and continue on with the annual approach. 

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So what can you do to keep the pain level down and the payback up?

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• Keep your goals (and anything else you'll be measured on at year-end) front and center.  Each time you've hit a milestone or have a measurable example of something on your plan, jot it down as you go throughout the year.  At year-end, simply look at what you've tracked and summarize it.

• Take credit.  If you did it, or if you contributed to the outcome, own it.  If you led it, share credit with those who supported the work.  If you did it on your own, take full credit.  This is not the time for modesty.

• Avoid lists of actions or activities and focus on outcomes and achievements.  When it's quantifiable, put the numbers in the results (increased revenue, cost avoidance or $ saved, increased customer or employee retention). If it's primarily quality based, incorporate other's observation of success when possible (e.g. another department or customer).

• Whenever possible, identify accomplishments that feed into your boss's goal(s).  Make it easy for them to see how you helped them to achieve their objectives.

Now you have a 4-step plan to complete that self-appraisal, or, to prepare for your annual evaluation with your boss. Don't forget, this is your time to highlight all you've done to help the company achieve its strategic objectives and goals.

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Photo source: Pixabay