Performance Review Tip #3: The Negative Review
~ February 2nd, 2010Performance reviews are no fun in general. They’re especially painful when you receive a poor grade. Here’s a few helpful tips to help you get through a negative review:
- Don’t turn your review into a ‘boxing match’. If your manager gives you negative feedback, don’t get defensive. Acting defensively won’t change the outcome, and will only make you look worse. Being able to take criticism is an important aspect of business and life, and something that managers look for in future leaders.
- Ask questions and seek clarification. Ask for specific steps you can take to improve your performance. Not only will this help you improve, it will show your manager that you’re serious about improving. Your goal should be to finish your review with an understanding of exactly what you’re doing (or not doing) that lead to a less then stellar review.
- Don’t take it personally. A review that doesn’t honestly assess your performance will hurt more in the long run than negative feedback now. You’ll keep making the same mistakes which may eventually lead to your dismissal. Remember this: negative feedback may sting now but will help in the long run.
A poor performance review isn’t the end of the world. Use it as motivation to improve, and show your boss what you’re really capable of.
Check out our previous performance review tips: Be Prepared and The Response
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