Situation: Requesting a Performance Review
Use this script to request a review of your performance outside of the normal timeframe for reviews, or if your employer does not do regular/annual performance reviews. Pay isn’t the only reason to request a performance review — it can help you improve your job stability by ensuring your work is aligned with your employer’s expectations. You should sit down with your manager to evaluate your performance at least once a year.
Preparation:
- Timing is a key consideration for this request. Pick a time that isn’t especially busy or consumed with a big project.
- This is an opportunity for you to learn what you’re doing well, and areas you can improve. Before asking for the review, take time to review your job description and work goals (if you have them) and put together a list of your accomplishments. Also, if you previously had a performance evaluation, review any forms or paperwork from that meeting.
- If you want to discuss compensation in this meeting, make that part of your request. (“As part of the meeting, I’d also like to review my current compensation.”)
Make the Ask:
[Boss name], I wanted to see if we can find a time to meet to review my performance here at [company name]. I’d like to get your feedback on my work and any areas of improvement I should work on. I want to make sure I’m meeting your expectations.
In my previous job, I had an annual meeting with my boss to get feedback, and that really helped me make sure I was meeting her needs.
Is there a time that works best for you next week?
[Choose a timeframe that works for you and your boss.]
How It Might Sound:
You: Jane, I’m coming up on my one year anniversary here at BlueStone, and I wanted to see if we could sit down for a review of my performance and my compensation. I’ve put together some questions and a list of my accomplishments, and I’d like your feedback on how I’m doing and what goals I should be targeting for the next 12 months.
Can we sit down for a meeting to discuss this next week?
Boss: Wow. Has it been a year already? I didn’t realize your work anniversary was coming up so soon. Sure, absolutely, we can review that.
You: Would Friday morning or afternoon work better for you?
Boss: Friday at 11 would be fine.
You: Great. Thanks. I’ll send you a calendar invitation.
