Did you get your review already? How was it? Not that great? 😱
And what about your peer feedback? Nonexistent?
It’s time to change that! Let’s ensure you’re fully prepared for your next review, whether to secure that promotion or land a well-deserved salary raise.
Set Clear, Achievable Goals
First things first: let’s review your goals for the next semester and ensure they’re realistic and within reach. Sit down with your manager and remove any objectives that are impossible to achieve from the outset.
To do this effectively, apply the SMART framework to your goals:
• Specific: Clearly define what you want to achieve so you know exactly where to focus.
• Measurable: Establish metrics to track your progress and stay motivated.
• Achievable: Ensure your goals are realistic, given your resources and constraints.
• Relevant: Align your goals with your career growth and your company’s objectives.
• Time-bound: Set deadlines to keep yourself accountable and on track.
By making your goals SMART, you set yourself up for success while avoiding unnecessary stress.
Track Your Achievements with a Brag Doc
How can you prove you’re meeting your goals? Start by creating a Brag Doc. Yes, you heard it right—a document where you track your daily wins.
At the end of each day, jot down:
• What you accomplished.
• Any obstacles you encountered and how you addressed them.
• Steps you took toward achieving your goals.
This habit helps you reflect on your progress and provides concrete evidence during your next review. It’s your personal highlight reel, ready to shine when you need it most.
The Power of Peer Feedback
How can others speak highly of you if they don’t know what you’ve done? It’s time to make your impact visible! Here’s how:
• Solve problems for your colleagues: When you help others, they remember you and talk about your contributions.
• Participate in discussions: Share solutions and ideas in Slack or team meetings to position yourself as a valuable contributor.
• Showcase your skills: Present new things you’ve learned or pair program with peers. This increases your visibility and shows that you’re invested in team success.
The more you collaborate and support your peers, the stronger your professional reputation will become.
Maximise Your One-on-Ones
One-on-ones with your manager are your secret weapon. Use these meetings to:
• Align expectations: Make sure you fully understand what it takes to achieve each goal so you deliver precisely what’s needed—not just what you think is expected.
• Demonstrate progress: Share updates from your Brag Doc to show how you advance toward your goals.
• Contribute to their goals: Remember, your manager has their own objectives. If you can help them succeed, you’ll become an invaluable team member in their eyes.
Your manager often has the final say regarding promotions and raises. By aligning with their priorities, you can tip the scales in your favour.
Take Control of Your Growth
Your career growth is in your hands. By setting SMART goals, tracking your achievements, leveraging peer feedback, and maximising your one-on-ones, you’ll be well-equipped to excel during your next review.
Remember, the key to success lies in consistent, intentional effort. Start implementing these habits today, and when review time comes around again, you’ll not only feel confident, but you’ll have the results to back it up.
Are you ready to take charge of your career? Let’s make it happen!