University of California, Berkeley

Handling the appraisal meeting

  1. Remember that the appraisal meeting is a discussion and a dialog between you and your supervisor.
  2. Maintain good eye-contact, attentive posture, and a professional manner.
  3. Listen and take notes.
  4. Reflect back to your supervisor your understanding of what your supervisor said.
  5. Compare the actual specific performance results and behaviors to the standards. Stay away from blaming others and making excuses.
  6. Emphasize strengths, as well as areas that need improvement.
  7. Be honest and take responsibility.
  8. Provide your ideas on how to resolve problems.
  9. If you don't agree with your supervisor, ask for specific examples.
  10. Set goals, expectations, and standards together for the next appraisal.
  11. Discuss development and training needs.
  12. Tell your supervisor what you need to do your job more efficiently.