How to Ace Your Next Performance Review in Seven Successful Steps

Your raise and your job promotions are contingent upon whether or not you meet or exceed your manager’s performance expectations. To ensure that you receive an outstanding evaluation, you should start preparing now for your year-end review by doing what is expected of you.  Know your strengths and weakness and be prepared to prove that you have accomplished goals that were set for you and you should demonstrate how well you’ve managed your objectives.  Here are steps that will help you prepare for your next performance review.

Step 1

Know what is expected of you

First and foremost by now you should know what your job duties and responsibilities entail and whether or not you came close to meeting your manager’s expectations.  Do a thorough review of your job description that you received when you were hired. You can also review your evaluation from last year (if you have one) to see if you’ve made significant improvements.  Did you competently perform all of your job duties in a timely manner?  Why or why not?   Did you lack adequate tools needed to perform your job? Were you given ample time to complete task in a timely manner? Be prepared to explain why you failed to complete any assigned task(s) as expected.

Step 2

Perform a self-evaluation

Next, you should do a self-evaluation before meeting with your manager for your review.  You will need to scrutinize your overall performance for the year and summarize your greatest accomplishments and even your failures.  What have you achieved?  Where have you fallen short?

Step 3

Document your accomplishments

Make a comprehensive list of your accomplishments and be prepared to demonstrate how you believe that you are a valuable asset to the company at some point during your review.  Don’t forget to list those instances in which you went “above and beyond the call of duty”.  You should also bring pieces of evidence (e.g. email, letter, thank you card, etc.) in which an internal client or external client praised you for competently executing a particular job assignment that your manager may not be aware of.  The point is you want to emphasize your most excellent accomplishments for the year.

Step 4

Identify your weakness

You will need to identify your weakness and be prepared to discuss with your manager how you plan to bring things up to par by next review.   You should be honest with yourself and with your manager. Remember there is always room for improvement in one area or another no matter how competent you are in doing your job.

Step 5

Review process

Bring paper and pen with you so that you can take notes during your review.You will need to stay focused and listen attentively as your manager performs your review.  At some point your manager will give you an opportunity to view and elaborate on your completed review.  If you are not satisfied with the scores and the comments made by your manager , you should point out which things you don’t agree with and why.  Find out how you can improve your performance where you fell short.  It’s a good idea to compare your self-evaluation to your manager’s evaluation to learn how they differ and why.

Step 6

Stay focused and take notes during the review

Active participation is important so be sure to take notes throughout the course of your review.  This will show your manager that you are serious about making improvements where you failed to meet performance expectations. Ask questions and make sure that you comprehend the answers your manger communicates to you.  When you return to work, refer back to your notes from time to time to ensure that you work towards making the necessary improvements where needed.

Step 7

Set new goals for next year

Finally, stress how you are committed to the company and how you plan to help bring about organizational success.  Set realistic goals for yourself that you would like to accomplish by next year. Use specific measures as to how you plan to accomplish these goals. Example, how much you plan to reduce office supplies cost by or by what percentage you plan to increase your sales revenue, etc.  Ask you manager how he or she can help you achieve your goals.  Your manager will ask that you sign your evaluation at the completion of your review and should give you a copy for your files.   Hopefully you will receive a good score, receive a decent raise, and be considered for future promotions.  If not, you should aim to EXCEED your manager’s performance expectations next year.

More Tips:

*accept accountability for your failures

*don’t blame your co-workers for your mistakes

*be a team player

*embrace constructive criticism

How to Thoroughly Research Prospective Employers

Job-seekers should always do a thorough research on a prospective employer(s) before interviewing and/or accepting a position with that company.  Just as prospective employers complete comprehensive background checks on job candidates, job-seekers should check out the companies they desire to work for as well.

The consequences of joining a company before doing a thorough research beforehand can be very disappointing.  My advice, know before you go! Listed are ways in which you can research a company before you accept a position or even apply for a job with a potential employer.

~Check out the company website~

1. One of the most convenient and efficient ways to research a prospective employer is to go directly to the company website.  By viewing the website, you can find out just about everything you need to know about the company.  Some company websites even have virtual tours as well. With virtual tours you will be able to get a glimpse of the company and this is a good thing.

~Check out the company blogs~

2. Another way to find out things of interest is to check out the company blogs to find out what others are saying about it.  You will be surprised at the things you can learn from someone who has knowledge and/or some type of direct or indirect contact withcompany.

~Ask someone who knows~

3. Talk with someone who currently works for the company or who use to work with the company to find out the strengths and weaknesses of the company.  Generally, people will give you their honest opinions and their personal experiences with the company.

~Make a personal visit~

4. One of the best ways to find out about the company you desire to work for is to make a personal visit.  You will probably need to stop at the reception desk or security beforehand… to get a pass to enter the company premises. Once you are given the okay to enter the company, you might be directed to the human resources department…and that’s fine.  Just tell the staff that you are interested in working for the company and just wanted to find out more about it.  Someone should be able to assist you…and give you a brief overview of the company and/or give you a company brochure. In the meantime, you should get a feel for the company culture; observe dress code and employee attitude and so on...

~Attend a job fair~

5. In the event you learn that a job fair will be in your area, check out the companies that will be attending.  Perhaps there will be companies attending that you are interested in working for.  You should make it a point to attend so that you can meet with prospective employers firsthand.

~Net work~

6. By networking with other job-seekers you might learn something about a potential employer that can help you determine whether or not this would be someplace you would like to work.  LinkedIn, Facebook, and other professional social networking sites are all great places to network with other job-seekers and current employees.

How to Compose a Winning Resume That Can Help You Get an Interview!

Your resume is a powerful marketing tool that gives potential employers a glance at your educational background, job history, and your key skills and accomplishments and how your credentials can contribute to success of its organization. Keep in mind that your resume could win you an interview with potential employers if you highlight key aspects that are pertinent to the job in which you are applying for.   Notice: I emphasized, “HELP get you an interview”. Once you are selected for an interview, you will then have to prove that you are the best candidate for the position in which you are applying for.  Here steps that will help you compose a winning resume that can help you get that job interview that you desire and beyond.

RESUME STYLE

First of all, you will need to determine what style of resume is right for you.  There are two basic styles of resumes, the chronological format and the functional format.

The Chronological resume displays a list of your job history starting with your most recent job and ending with your former positions.  If you have a consistent work history that you wish to display, this style will work best for you. The Functional resume highlights your job skills and accomplishments pertaining to the position you are seeking.  If you have a gap in your employment history, this style might work better for you.  Also, in some cases, you can combine the two.

NAME AND CONTACT INFORMATION

Next, you will need to display your full name, (no nickname) your address and telephone number where you can be reached at the very top of your paper.  You should also list your e-mail address if you have one. If you don't have one, it's very easy to obtain one and it's free in most cases.

CAREER OBJECTIVE

Your career objective should display a brief summary of your short-term career goals and what you would like to accomplish in the future.

SUMMARY OF QUALIFICATIONS

Your summary of qualification will list a concise description of your career accomplishments that you feel are significant in determining that you are the best candidate for the position.  You can list this in place of a career objective or you can use in conjunction with.  Both should be very brief, not more than 2 to 3 sentences.

TECHNICAL SKILLS

You should list any skills that you have on your resume.  This will show potential employers your job strengths and capabilities.

WORK EXPERIENCE

You will need to list your jobs that you have worked in chronological order, starting with your most recent employer.  You should list the month and year you started and the month and year you left; the job title; a brief description of your duties; and the city and state of each job.

EDUCATION

It’s imperative that you list any degrees, diplomas, or certificates that you have acquired on your resume.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

You should list any additional skills that are relevant to the job in which you are seeking, such as license, awards, group affiliations, etc.

Tips:

*Make sure your resume contains pertinent keywords (check job ad)

*Have someone proof read your resume

*Present a professional looking resume

*Don’t list your references on your resume.

*List references on separate page

*Your resume should be no more than two pages long

*Use past tense when describing former duties

* Use present tense when describing your current duties

* Spell out numbers that are less than ten (e.g. one, two, three)

 

 

 

How to Dress Your Best for a Job Interview!

Did you know that dressing inappropriately for an interview can actually prevent you from getting hired for that particular job? It is imperative that you make a good first impression when you go for your job interview. Here are some valuable tips and illustrations for dressing appropriately for an interview.



 

APPROPRIATE INTERVIEW ATTIRE
You should keep in mind that you will need to dress in professional business attire for your initial interview, regardless of the company's dress code within the organization. Both men and women should dress appropriately and look professionally groomed for your interview. Once hired you can then conform to the dress code permitted for that particular company (e.g. casual dress, company uniforms, jean Fridays), but not before then. 

MEN
Men should wear a navy blue (or slightly lighter shade), black, or dark gray business suit and conservative shirt with a necktie. And should wear dark shoes and dark colored socks. You should wear minimum cologne and jewelry. You don't want to cause any major distractions during your interview so you should avoid wearing body piercing, nor should you show any body tattoos. If you have visible body tattoos, you will be able to cover them with a long sleeve shirt, a suit jacket, and 

WOMEN
Woman should wear a navy blue, black, gray, or beige conservative pant suit or skirt suit with a conservative blouse. Dark comfortable closed-toe conservative shoes will do fine. You should avoid wearing loud perfumes and wear minimum jewelry. Cover any body tattoos with a long sleeve conservative jacket and pant so that they are not visible. 

 

INTERVIEW
So now that you are dressed appropriately, you can go to your interview with confidence. You will make a good first impression and increase your chances of getting that job. You should proofread your resume carefully beforehand to make sure that it is free of grammatical and typographical errors. And be sure to do a thorough research on the company beforehand as well. And last, don't forget to turn off your cell phone before you begin your interview.

TIPS

*Utilize the spell-check before printing your resume. Have someone proofread your resume for you.

*Some companies will allow BUSINESS casual attire for interviewees, I suggest you inquire beforehand- if in doubt go for professional business attire as stated above.

*Never wear jeans to an interview! Never wear gym shoes, if needed for comfort while traveling, be sure to remove them before your interview.

 

 

How to Meet and Beat Work Deadlines

Do you struggle every week and month-end trying to meet your deadlines at work?    Meeting work deadlines successfully will help boost company profits, job efficiency, and overall job enrichment.  It’s important that you meet your deadlines as someone is depending upon you to do so…whether it is internal or external staff, clients, or co-workers. If you properly plan ahead and work effectively you can actually meet and even beat your work deadlines.  Here are some proven techniques that will help you achieve your goals.
Get Clarification
1. First and foremost, you will need to get clarification on the dates and times for submitting your work before the deadlines.  Don’t second guess but contact the right individual(s) who can give you the specifics of when you need to have your work in.  Bear in mind that this information is very important…so make sure you get it right.
Create a schedule
2. After you know when you are required to meet your deadlines, you should create a calendar and visibly mark the dates in which you are expected to complete your work.  You should place your calendar in a place where you can view it every day.
Follow your schedule
3. Next, you will need to make a conscious effort to work toward meeting your deadlines in advance.  Do a routine check to ensure that you are on schedule. Implement a system that works best for you.  For example; if you know you have to meet deadlines every Thursday, you should start early in the week…gathering all of the necessary components to make it happen.
Simplify task
4.  Break down your task to make it easier to complete.  Concentrate on the most urgent and demanding work first- but be sure to complete other less-urgent assignments as well in a timely matter.   Set goals for completing work and meeting deadlines.
Plan and start early
5. You should plan to start early to meet your deadlines.  This means that you might want to come in extra early, stay late, or come in on the weekend for a couple of hours or so- to process and execute job assignments ahead of time  When you start early enough you will more than likely meet your deadlines and in some cases you will beat your deadlines.
Use latest technology
6. Make sure that the equipment that you use to process and complete your work is in good working condition.  You will need to upgrade software and replace equipment that is unreliable and breaks down repeatedly.  Your company should invest in the best and latest technology in order to process work more efficiently and to stay competitive.
Stay abreast
7. You will need to stay abreast as to when changes are made to your normal routine and work schedules.  Stay abreast by checking your e-mail, your voicemail, and by communicating with internal and external staff and clients.
Institute a back-up plan
8. It’s imperative that you have a back-up plan in place in the event of unforeseen circumstances that could hinder or alter your original plans.  You should also train and appoint someone else to do your job when you are out. 
Tips:
*Seek competent assistance in the event you fall behind schedule
*Notify appropriate individual(s) in the event you are behind schedule

How to Properly Prepare for a Job Fair

JOB FAIR

Job fairs are great opportunities in which job seekers can meet with potential employers who are looking to hire within their companies at some point and to also network with other job-seekers.  It is imperative that you properly prepare yourself so that you can make a good first impression.  Remember there will be hundreds of other applicants and you want to make sure that you stand out in a positive way.  Not only should you bring your resume list your hard skills, but you should also be prepared to demonstrate your soft skills (interpersonal skills) as well.  Here are strategies that will help you properly prepare for your job fair.

Step 1

Research to find out which employers will be participating

First of all, you should research to find out which companies will be attending the fair beforehand. Contact the organization that is sponsoring the event to acquire a list of the companies that will be present. You can also obtain information about the companies of your interest by visiting the companies’ websites.

Step 2

Pre-register, if possible

Check to see if you can register for the fair online beforehand.  You will more than likely be instructed to submit your resume during the registration process.  This will allow all interested employers a chance to review your resume before the event.  Be prepared to interview with employers who might be interested in your work credentials.

Step 3

Bring plenty of resumes, a portfolio, and business cards

Make sure you bring plenty of resumes to the event.  Your resumes should be professional looking and free from grammatical errors and spelling typos.  It would be wise to have someone proofread your resume for you. It’s simply more professional looking to carry a portfolio to keep your resumes, business cards, and business references.  You want to present material that is clean, neat, and professional looking.

Step 4

Dress for success

You should only wear appropriate business attire to a job fair.  You should never wear jeans or gym shoes.  Remember you want to make a first good impression, so dress for success.  See my article “how to dress you best for a job interview”, link posted at end of article.

Step 5

Network with employers and other job seekers

Not only should you network with potential employers but you should also try to network with as many other job-applicants as you can.  By doing so, you can find leads to other job opportunities that may interest you as well.  Be sure to exchange business cards with other job seekers that you meet.

Step 6



Brief summarization about yourself

You will need to brush up on your presentation skills so that you will be prepared to give a brief summary of who you are and your career background when you approach a recruiter.   Greet each recruiter with a firm handshake and direct eye contact.  Be courteous at all times.  This is an excellent opportunity to display your soft skills such as your social skills and communication skills.  Keep in mind that these are important aspects in recruitment selection.  Be sure to present your resume at some point during your meeting with recruiters

Step 7

You should seek out those employers that you are interested in

You do realize that recruiters will be busy meeting with hundreds of job-seekers, so it’s important that you arrive early so that you can get a chance to meet with as many recruiters as you can.  In the event you cannot meet with all, you should leave your resume and take company brochures and other relevant information with you and follow up with them later.

Step 8

Send thank you cards

Be sure to send thank you cards to all companies that you had the opportunity to meet and interview with. This is also an opportunity to express your further interest in working for them.

Tips:

*Plan to arrive early

*Be sure to turn off cell phone and all other electronic devices

*Be prepared to have a brief interview(s) with interested employer(s)

*Approach only companies that you have interest in working for first, for time sake

*Follow up with employers that interest you