52. Ace Your Performance Review: Tips for Career Growth

PERFORMANCE REVIEW — SECRETS OF THE CORPORATE GAME — EPISODE 52

How you handle performance reviews can make or break your corporate career. In this episode of Secrets of the Corporate Game, Kendall Berg reveals how to transform feedback into a powerful tool for growth and success. Dive into strategies like using an accomplishments tracker to consistently shine in front of your managers, and learn how to balance peer feedback with the “compliment sandwich” technique.

This is your ultimate guide to getting ahead by managing your performance reviews year-round, not just when review season hits. Whether aiming for a promotion or preparing for a tough conversation, this episode gives you the tactical steps to ensure no surprises come review time.

How to Leverage Your Impact During Performance Reviews

When it comes to performance reviews, it’s not just about checking boxes—it’s your moment to showcase the real impact you’ve had on the company. Think of it as proving why you’re worth every penny they invest in you. Whether you’re filling out a simple form or breaking down competencies like leadership and culture, leading with your achievements is key. Are you struggling with how to articulate your contribution to company culture? Kendall explains that you must dive into examples highlighting how you’ve elevated the employee experience, from mentoring initiatives to driving diversity efforts. By mastering this framework, you’ll confidently position yourself as a top asset during review season.

The Compliment Sandwich: A Proven Formula for Effective Feedback

Giving feedback during a performance review can feel like walking a tightrope—too harsh, and you risk damaging important relationships; too fluffy, and your feedback gets dismissed. Finding the balance is key to being both honest and constructive. The “compliment sandwich” technique offers a way to deliver meaningful feedback without burning bridges, starting with praise, followed by constructive criticism, and ending on a positive note. It’s a method that helps your feedback resonate while maintaining professionalism, empathy, and rapport in the workplace.

Listen to Ep. 42. The Secret to Career Advancement: Cross Collaborations

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Key Takeaways

📝 Performance Review Writing (00:00 – 08:54)

• Focus on impact rather than tasks in performance reviews
• Lead with impact, then discuss what was done, and provide supporting examples
• Keep an accomplishment’s tracker throughout the year
• Meet with boss, skip level, and key stakeholders before performance review season
• Follow-up meetings in November and January/February for promotion/raise discussions

🤝 Peer and Manager Reviews (08:55 – 18:14)

• Request peer reviews from colleagues with good relationships
• Use the ‘compliment sandwich’ approach for constructive feedback
• Balance between being too negative and too positive in feedback
• Provide specific examples of growth and improvement opportunities
• Use supportive language when giving feedback, especially for new managers

👥 Manager’s Guide to Performance Reviews (18:15 – 27:01)

• Stick to the compliment sandwich approach for most reviews
• Be more direct with employees on coaching plans or with significant performance issues
• Ensure no surprises in performance reviews – all feedback should be given throughout the year
• Conduct mid-year performance evaluations, even if not required by the company
• Address any overlooked issues immediately in one-on-ones before finalizing reviews

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That Career Coach

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🌐 https://thatcareercoach.net/

Build out the tools you need to navigate the corporate game: — Self Driven Mastermind