Answer Honestly

• Consider each question on the performance review carefully. Be honest as you consider your own work performance. Read each question separately. Consider times on the job when you exhibited the quality listed in the question. Do not try to create an impression of modesty by rating yourself lower than you actually performed. On the other hand, don't try to build yourself up by rating yourself higher than you performed. Your manager knows the quality of your work; representing your performance inaccurately during the self-evaluation phase of the performance review reduces your credibility.
  
  

Cite Specific Examples

• For each question on the performance review, think of specific examples when you demonstrated the quality listed. If the performance review provides room for comments, write about these examples on the comment lines. If not, keep a separate list of these examples. This list provides documentation to substantiate the rating you gave yourself on the performance review. Bring this list with you to the meeting with your manager.
  
  

Look At Your Previous Performance Review

• Pull out your previous year's performance review. Read through the ratings and the comments. Identify areas where you improved since the previous performance review. Note these in your ratings on your current performance review. Notice the areas where you didn't improve. Brainstorm ideas for developing your skills in these areas. Keep this list to discuss in the meeting with your manager.
  
  

Plan Adequate Time

• When you receive the performance review form, look over all the questions. Estimate how long it will take you to consider each question and respond. Increase this time by 50 percent. Block this amount of time off on your calendar to complete the self-evaluation. Shut your door if you have one. Turn off the phone and shut down email while you focus on the performance review. Give it your full attention.