How do you prepare for a remote performance review? First-time remote workers probably wonder how they can ace it with flying colors.
While a remote performance review is a bit different in terms of planning and execution, the gist is very much the same. A performance review is an assessment of your work performance. The overall goal is to get feedback from your boss and create a tangible plan of action for improvement.
Now, how can you ace your remote performance review? In this article, we’ll discuss tips for planning and succeeding in performance reviews for remote workers.
To put yourself in a good light, list down specific professional achievements in recent months.
Let’s say, you’re a content creator. You could write, “I created 7 videos per month with an average of 100,000 views each for the past four months.” Likewise, a salesperson can specify the number of deals closed for the company.
Accomplishments may vary based on your role. Yet, it’s important to remind your boss about your wins, especially because you’re working apart.
Managers can offer feedback but that doesn’t guarantee you’ll get better. Hence, think about ways to improve and come up with a plan of action.
A performance review is also an opportunity to bring up remote work challenges. For example, your team could be facing burnout due to long working hours, so suggest additional manpower for future projects. Be realistic in your goals and expectation, but don't be afraid to express your needs.
Next, prepare for the actual interview.
Dress to impress with professional attire to match the occasion.
Even if you’re talking to your boss through a webcam, mind your body language. Sit properly and do not slouch to show that you’re engaged.
Non-charismatic people may find it difficult to bring up tough issues. That’s precisely why you must rehearse your points to communicate clearly.
During the performance review, you’re guaranteed to receive criticisms.
A good tip is to handle negative feedback in stride and to avoid taking it personally. Instead, remember the points raised because rectifying this issue could be the key to your next promotion. Don’t forget to thank your manager and show your willingness to improve.
If the feedback is unclear, ask follow-up questions, “Can you cite an instance when I behaved this way?”. Likewise, if you’re not sure how to resolve the issue, then you can say, “How do you think I can handle this better?”
Prior to ending your performance review, discuss the next step.
How will you improve your performance or collaboration with your boss or team in the future? How will you avoid repeating the same mistakes?
For instance, say something like, “For the next steps, I’d like to work on transparency and provide weekly updates on my team’s progress in regards to project XYZ. I’ll do my best to get the deliverables finished a day earlier so you can give feedback before I submit it for review to the client. I would like to discuss my progress by the end of the month, so I would ask for a follow-up by then. Is that okay with you?”
Planning the next steps is crucial because it shows you’re committed to performing a better job.
It can be difficult to come up with a plan of action at short notice. In this case, tell the manager that you’ll send suggestions after a few days through email or their preferred communication channel.
A remote performance review may seem intimidating.
On the bright side, preparing and planning ahead can turn the odds in your favor.
Write down accomplishments and brainstorm areas of improvement to impress your boss. You can also create a plan of action to boost your work performance.
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