Performance Management: The Performance Discussion
February 23, 2023
One of the final components of our annual performance management cycle at CoolSys is the performance discussion. If you haven’t already had your conversation with your manager, here are a few things to consider.
Preparation
Your performance discussion is a comprehensive look back at your job responsibilities and expectations over the past year. You can think of it as a review of what you did well, what you possibly did beyond expectations and what may have needed some improvement.
It’s important to understand, though, that while your manager should be well informed regarding your performance, they may not remember every detail. Is there something you did exceptionally well or a time when you went above and beyond expectations? Did you show improvement in one or more areas? Did you achieve your goals? What were the outcomes, and how did you reach them? Talk about it!
Prepare for your conversation with a few notes — concise bullet points — and be ready to share them with your manager. Use your voice and be proud of your accomplishments and contributions to CoolSys.
Active Listening
In your discussion, your manager will present a candid assessment of how they believe you performed. They should share specific examples, of both areas of achievement and opportunities for improvement. They should provide specific details of both and should communicate those details clearly and concisely.
It’s critical for you to be an active listener in this conversation. Pay close attention to what your manager says so you can fully understand their comments. Don’t just wait to talk, but actively listen — and don’t interrupt them until they have made their points. If you feel you might forget something you want to respond to, it’s OK to jot down a quick note.
It’s a Discussion
Finally, keep in mind at all times that your performance discussion is just that — a discussion. It’s not a lecture or a one-way conversation. It’s an opportunity for you to participate and respond while also setting the stage for the future and where you want to go next. Make the most of it!