How to respond after a bad performance review
In the workplace, we all have to face performance reviews. Sometimes reviews can be bad for even a good person. And nobody likes negative feedback from seniors for our performance. Despite working so hard. we won’t get to listen to what we wanted to. At that time we should not lash out on the person who is giving review rather than we should behave maturely. According to Adobe company data polled of among1500 employees, 22% respondent cried,37% looked for another job and 20% quit the job just because of bad performance review.
Such situations are really disappointing and embarrassing sometimes. If we will take the criticism constructively, It can help us to grow better. Here are a few ways which we have to follow instead of getting angry, frustrated or isolate oneself is not the solution-
1. Keep yourself calm down- When someone is giving you negative feedback the very first thing you could do is to listen carefully without losing your temper. Because you may be right from your perspective. but you have to try to understand others’ point of view also.
2. First Listen than react- According to Haward business review “reflect before you react”.It is not necessary that a person who is giving feedback is totally correct. It may be because of his point of view he is giving feedback. but you can discuss It later in the meeting. You need to understand what your manager wants from you. Once you are cool off you can ask questions if things are not clear to you.
3. Schedule a meeting- Once your review is over schedule it later. After analyzing everything you should sit with your manager. You can explain things like how did you change your strategy of working, how did you plan your next moment. So that the concerned person will think that you are making efforts for improvement.
4. Explain what you have already done- It can happen that problem is not from your side it could be from your team members or subordinates. You can discuss your hurdles. That where exactly your work is getting hampered and stuck. Maybe he/ she is having solutions of your problem because of which you were not able to complete the task on delivered time or productivity was not as expected.
5. Talk to colleagues whom you trust- If you really think there is nothing wrong from your side so you can talk to colleagues who can give you unbiased feedback or can tell you the truth. Rebuild good relationships with other peers and colleagues. Those who are not biased and can repair your image in front of the boss.
6. Concentrate on the bigger picture- You better look forward to future prospects. If you would take your criticism positively and see it as an opportunity to improve you and your performance. You can do miracles. Instead of bemoaning on the negative side. keep your mind open and not to indulge in arguments.
7. Request positive feedback- While having a discussion with your boss most of them pay heed on constructive criticism, not all bosses are that supportive. If your boss is also like that you can request some positive feedback on your work. which he/ she thinks comes under good performance or you can also explain by giving the data and reports which helped the business.
8. Find the Gap- Once you discuss the things with other colleagues and your superior you can better understand where is the gap or those blind spots which you were unable to see. If you require some training for your self or for your team members you can ask the management.
9. Follow up after meeting- Once you get feedback on your performance. If possible be in the continuous touch of your manager. Keep him/ her updated about your progress and in case you need any support so that in the end you don’t have to get bothered about something which was unknown to your manager.
10. Be Honest — Be honest with your weakness. As early as you would accept them, sooner you would be able to improve them. Ditch that feeling of insecurity. If its really difficult to mend it start looking for better options.
So these are some ways which could help you to rebuild your performance after a bad review. Instead of getting insecure, angry, frustrated, you need to respond sensibly. Don’t let it consume you, depress you. By better planning and clear goals, you can come back with great achievements.
Keep your review continue from time to time. Let the team and boss know what changes you are making and how you are dealing with challenges. What they think about the same so instead of regretting in the end, you could get support and advice while your project or work is going on.
These are the ways already applied and worked on I hope you it would help you out.
