Few things are more stressful and upsetting than a poor performance review. But one bad review doesn't mean that you need to dust off your resume. Take a few days to process what you are told, address any inaccuracies and work with your boss to make improvements. If you do these things, you can make good use of the review to improve your career prospects.
Instructions
1. Listen carefully to what your employer has to say. Bring pen and paper with you to take notes during your meeting.
2. Remain calm and professional throughout the review: An outburst or hostile reaction won't help the relationship between you and your boss. It may also validate your boss's negative opinion of your professionalism and performance. Thank your boss for his feedback and ask for specific examples of problems with your work.
3. Ask for time to consider the review, and don't sign it right away. If you are angry and upset, and it is understandable if you are, this is not a good time to dialogue about a plan for improvement. If you believe the review to be unfair, you'll need a few days to do some research so that you can present a good case in your defense.
4. Follow-up with your supervisor, regardless of whether or not you believe that the review was a fair assessment of your performance. Acknowledge those areas in which you do need to improve. Explain that you want to make improvements and propose a plan for doing so. Ask about the possibility of taking some continuing education courses or meeting with your boss on a regular basis in order review your progress.
If you feel that some of her critique was unwarranted, explain why you believe that the criticism is unfair. Show your boss any documentation that you have that supports your claims. If you can make a good case in your own defense, it may be possible to get those items removed from your review.
5. Seek legal advice. If you genuinely feel that your performance review is unwarranted or retaliatory, and your supervisor failed to give you concrete examples of your negative work habits or behaviors, talk to an employment lawyer about your situation. If you fear that your job is in jeopardy due to this review, a lawyer can advise you of your options and ways to protect yourself.
