- 1). Consult your employee handbook for information on how to request your employment file. The rules for access to personnel files vary from state to state. You may have to submit a written request, or you may be limited to only viewing your file during off-duty hours.
- 2). Review your employment file, which contains past performance evaluations, professional goals, training records and developmental activities. The file also may include disciplinary or corrective action records. Review the file for accuracy. Contact the human resources department to request corrections to your file if you notice any omissions or misfiled documents.
- 3). Compose a statement of your accomplishments since last year's performance evaluation meeting. Using documentation or journal entries you made throughout the year, compare your performance for this year to last year. Draft a description of how and when you accomplished any goals identified in last year's evaluation.
- 4). Compose a section explaining how your performance or behavior improved over the course of a year if documentation of corrective action exists in your personnel file. Some companies remove corrective action reports from employment files after a certain period of time, so check your employee handbook to determine if any corrective action forms can be removed from your file.
- 5). Read your job description and note any changes or additions made during the year. Look at each task and responsibility carefully; draft how well you perform your duties. Include a request for assistance in helping you understand any job expectations that are unclear.
- 6). Describe in writing your goals for the next year, how and when you intend to accomplish your goals, and tools necessary to help you meet self-defined goals. Throughout the self-assessment process, objectivity is key although it isn't always easy. Finish your draft self-assessment and lay it aside for a time when you can review it with a fresh perspective. Do not wait until the night before your evaluation meeting to write your self-assessment.
- 7). Proofread your document. Look at your self-assessment as objectively as possible. Ask a family member or spouse to review it, if you feel comfortable doing so. Another set of eyes -- and, another opinion -- may be very helpful. Practice articulating your evaluation in front of a mirror to build confidence in your ability to explain both accomplishments and areas for improvement.
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