Preparing for Your First Performance Review

Preparing for Your First Performance Review It is time for your annual performance review. You may be dreading it, but there are ways to prepare yourself for when the day comes. With the right attitude and solid preparation, you will be well on your way to getting the best evaluation possible.

The most important things to remember when it comes to your first review are to make sure your work ethic is consistent all year that you're open about your accomplishments, negotiating anything that you may need to be changed in your contract, and doing a self evaluation. The International Nurses Association recommends that you prepare by asking yourself questions that relate to those mentioned above to properly prepare for your performance review.

Related: How to Make Your Patients feel more Comfortable Keep Track of Your Accomplishments Keep a log of what you have accomplished throughout the year. Keeping up with technology, taking classes, and reading healthcare journals are all things that can be mentioned during your performance review. Do not let opportunities pass you by if they will help to improve your skills and broaden your knowledge.

If you demonstrate your passion for nursing through your decision to learn new technology and brush up on new healthcare journals will only help you that much more to prosper in your field.

Speak Up Letting your superiors know when you accomplish something not only makes you stand out, but it validates your passion for your field. Your superiors will have this knowledge in the back of their minds, and ultimately take it into consideration when it is time for your performance review. Moreover, be kind and try and let people get to know you. If you are welcoming to your superiors, they'll think of you in the light during your performance review.

The International Nurses Association recommends that you put yourself out there, because in the end the only person who can help you improve and rise up throughout your career is you.

Related: Top 5 Reasons You Should Get to Know Your Preceptor

Negotiate Learning how to negotiate is important if you strive for a promotion or a pay raise. Don't be afraid to speak up during your review if you feel that you deserve a pay raise. Sometimes, raises are not offered unless you ask. Explain your reasons why you deserve a raise, and use this information to demonstrate that you are willing to learn and grow in your position.

Review Yourself If you have any previous feedback from internships or similar, you may be able to assess yourself to figure out where you need to shine. Look at what your goals used to be and change them if needed. It doesn't hurt to assess yourself once in a while, as it will prepare you for the future.

Don't Be Afraid – Everything Will Be OK As long as you make sure you are prepared, your evaluation will go just fine. When you keep track of all of your accomplishments and understand what you are capable of, you will be able to do amazing things throughout your career.

What tips do you have for first year nurses preparing for their performance review?

Related: Skilled Nurse Jenny Liu, MSN, FNP (c), BSN, RN, to Be Published in the Worldwide Leaders in Healthcare Please follow us on Facebook, Linkedin, Pinterest and Twitter