How to prepare for your performance review

Updated November 9, 2026

Start two weeks before: list your results with numbers, match them to your goals, and bring one clear ask. A review goes best when you arrive with evidence and a plan for next year, not when you wait for the verdict.

What to do

1. Reread your goals and last review. Note what you were asked to deliver and what feedback you got. This year will be judged against both.
2. List your results with proof. Go through your calendar, sent emails and project tools for the year. Write each win as action plus result. Need wording? See these self-evaluation examples.
3. Own one weakness. Pick one real area to improve and what you're already doing about it. It shows judgment, and criticism won't catch you off guard.
4. Prepare your ask. A raise, a promotion, a new project, training: write it in one sentence with the reason. More in how to ask for a raise.
5. Plan your reaction to bad news. If you hear something unfair, ask: "Can you give me an example?" Take notes and respond in writing later.
6. Send a recap. Within a day, email the goals and next steps you agreed on. It's your record for next year.

What to say

Open the meeting with this, filling in the brackets:

Before we start, I'd like to share a quick summary of my year. My main goals were [goal] and [goal]. I delivered [result], and I also took on [extra project]. One area I want to improve is [skill], and here's my plan. I'd also like to talk about my next step here and what it would take to get there.

Avoid

• Arriving with no notes and letting your manager tell the whole story.
• Arguing in the meeting: ask for examples, then respond in writing.
• Listing tasks instead of results: "ran the weekly report" says nothing about impact.

Questions