Work appraisals: what to expect and how to prepare

In the workplace, performance reviews are an essential process conducted by almost all companies. Whether you work in a multinational corporation, a private enterprise, or an internet company, performance evaluations are key opportunities to understand your performance, clarify your development direction, and enhance your professional capabilities.

For many employees, however, performance discussions can feel stressful or intimidating. In reality, a performance review is not a one way assessment of whether you are “qualified,” but rather a two way communication between you and your manager.

If you have an upcoming performance review, this guide will help you understand the process and show you how to prepare effectively.


What Is a Performance Review?


A performance review is a process in which an employee’s work performance over a specific period is summarized and evaluated.

Companies typically conduct:
 
  • Probation reviews (usually after 3 or 6 months)
  • Quarterly or semi annual performance reviews
  • Annual performance reviews (often linked to bonuses and salary adjustments)
A good performance review should never come as a surprise. Effective managers communicate goals and expectations continuously, rather than waiting until the review to raise issues.

Before the review, you may be asked to prepare data, achievement examples, work summaries, or discussion points.

Performance reviews usually focus on:
 
  • Recent accomplishments
  • Areas for improvement
  • Skill development and training needs
  • Career development direction

What Does a Performance Review Typically Include?


1. Job Performance


You will review your achievements during the evaluation period, including KPIs, OKRs, or other measurable indicators.

In industries such as internet, sales, or operations, data performance is especially important; in functional roles, work quality and collaboration are often emphasized.

If you receive suggestions for improvement, there’s no need to feel overly anxious. Most companies value continuous growth—the key is to demonstrate your willingness to learn and your action plan.


2. Areas of Improvement


Your manager may point out skills or behaviors that could be enhanced.

This is not criticism—it helps you identify your next steps for growth. You can proactively discuss training needs, skill building plans, or support you hope to receive.


3. Teamwork


Team collaboration and cross department communication are highly valued in the workplace.

You may discuss:
 
  • Collaboration with colleagues
  • Coordination on cross team projects
  • Communication efficiency and work attitude

This is not the time to evaluate others, but to focus on how you contribute to the team.


4. Career Development


A performance review is an excellent opportunity to talk about your career path.

You can discuss:
 
  • Promotion opportunities
  • Job rotation possibilities
  • Your development goals for the next 1–3 years
  • Skills you need to build

Many companies use performance results to plan talent pipelines and promotion tracks.


5. Pay & Bonus


Annual performance results often directly influence:
 
  • Year end bonuses
  • Salary adjustments
  • Promotion opportunities
If you want to discuss a raise or bonus, prepare strong data and achievement examples. Avoid directly “asking for a raise”—instead, present your value professionally and objectively.


What Is a 360 Degree Performance Review?


Some companies—especially multinational corporations and large tech firms—use 360 degree evaluations.

This includes anonymous feedback from:
 
  • Direct managers
  • Peers
  • Direct reports
  • In some cases, clients or business partners

Conclusion


Performance reviews are powerful tools for career growth. With proper preparation, proactive communication, and professionalism, you can showcase your value and build a strong foundation for future development.

If you are not satisfied with your performance results or want to improve your communication skills, consider seeking guidance from professional consultants to help you plan your next steps.
 

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