Your attitude is the most important part of responding to a negative job performance review. It can make or break the entire
experience, and a positive attitude can demonstrate your willingness to work hard and correct mistakes. A respectful attitude that shows your interest in what can be improved in your job perofmance increases your value as an employee, despite a less than stellar review.
Instructions
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- 1Take a deep breath. Calm down before you say anything about the negative job review. It can only harm you further if you are unable to handle criticism and lose your temper. You may even lose your job as a result. Try to see things from your employer's side of the desk.
- 2Check in with your boss at a time convenient for her, about a month after the performance review. Ask how things are going from her point of view. Focus on improving anything she points out during the rest of the review period so that your next review goes better.
- 3Write a list of your strengths and weaknesses before the meeting. This can show your boss that you are on the same page as to what needs to be improved. According to the staffing and recruiting firm, Hudson, "This is a great way to critique yourself and prepare for any negatives that may come out of the evaluation with your boss."
- 4Bring proof of good work you have done over the performance review period to the meeting. This can remind your supervisor of the positive work you have contributed to the organization.
- 5Discuss the review and possibly set particular goals to reach over a designated period of time with your boss. For example, if you need to work on improving your sales, set a date a few weeks out as the deadline for improving your sales numbers by a particular amount.
- 6Develop an attitude of self-improvement. Demonstrate to your boss that you want to improve your work or character after the performance. Ask your boss what in particular needs work and for specific suggestions on making those improvements if you are unclear about what your boss expects. Sylvia Ho of Monster Mid-Career states, "Get your supervisor to explain in detail what the measurements of good performances are."
- 7Ask if you can take a few training classes to improve your skills in a particular area. Look at it as a new challenging project that you alone are responsible for. Complete the project with diligence and grace.
- 8Ask for specific examples if you do not agree with your boss about a particular point. Offer examples of your own to the contrary. Maintain a respectful and non-argumentative tone.
- 1Take a deep breath. Calm down before you say anything about the negative job review. It can only harm you further if you are unable to handle criticism and lose your temper. You may even lose your job as a result. Try to see things from your employer's side of the desk.
