01 — Review logistics
Know the format before you prepare for it
How the review runs shapes how you prepare.
02 — Your year in review
Your year, in results
Your manager might be writing several of these. The specifics you hand them are very likely the ones that make it into the file. Lead with what changed, then how: faster, cleaner, fewer errors, or more scale. Projects beyond the core job matter most.
03 — Feedback and growth areas
Development areas
A weakness goes over best as a development area: something real, already being worked on, and tied to where you want to grow. Your manager probably has a view already, so it helps to name it first and show some self-awareness.
Strengths
04 — Compensation and title
Know your number and your ask
Leverage your recruiter connections to identify current market ranges for your level. We’ll be able to provide intel on offers we've seen close, rather than from broad survey data, so you know whether the ask is fair, light, or a stretch.
05 — Goals for next year
Leave with a path, not just a rating
Ask your manager, word for word
“What would it take for me to reach [your goal] by my next review?”
Before the review
Walk in ready.
The prep work is half the battle. The rest is presenting it in the actual review with grounded confidence.
Seek feedback
Talk to your recruiter, mentors, close friends and family — anyone whose opinion you trust to pressure-test this.