During the review period (01-20 January), you'll sit down with your manager for a comprehensive discussion about your year. This meeting typically lasts longer than quarterly reviews because there's more to cover.

In this meeting, you'll discuss:

• Your overall performance rating and how it was determined
• Your strongest achievements and contributions from the year
• Areas where you've grown or improved
• Challenges you faced and how you handled them
• Opportunities for development in the coming year
• Your career goals and aspirations at OXO
• What support or resources you need to succeed

What Makes This "Official"?

Your annual performance review is included in your official performance evaluation and is the most important assessment of the year. This means:

• It becomes part of your permanent employee record
• It directly influences compensation decisions (salary increases)
• It's a key factor in promotion and advancement opportunities
• It determines eligibility for special recognition or awards
• It may impact future role assignments or career development opportunities
• Consistently strong annual reviews demonstrate your value and open doors for growth

Preparing for Your Annual Review

Because your annual review is so important, it's worth taking time to prepare properly. Here's how:

• Document your achievements: Throughout the year, keep a running list of projects completed, problems solved, and wins achieved
• Gather evidence: Collect data, positive feedback, metrics, or examples that demonstrate your contributions
• Review your role scorecard: Refresh your memory on what outcomes and competencies you're being evaluated against
• Reflect on your growth: Think about how you've developed professionally over the year—new skills, improved performance, expanded responsibilities
• Be honest about challenges: Identify areas where you struggled and what you learned from those experiences
• Think about your future: Come prepared with ideas about where you want to grow and what you want to achieve next
• Review your quarterly scores: Look back at your four quarterly goal reviews to see patterns and trends

During the Review Meeting

Your annual review meeting is a two-way conversation. Here's how to make the most of it:

• Listen actively: Pay close attention to your manager's feedback—both positive and constructive
• Ask questions: If something isn't clear, ask for specific examples or clarification
• Share your perspective: Respectfully provide context or additional information when relevant
• Accept feedback gracefully: Even if constructive feedback is hard to hear, receive it professionally
• Discuss your goals: Talk about what you want to achieve and how OXO can support you
• Take notes: Write down key points, especially action items or development plans
• Express appreciation: Thank your manager for their time and feedback

What Happens After the Review?

Your annual review isn't just a one-time meeting—it sets the stage for the year ahead. After your review:

• Your performance rating is finalized and documented
• Any compensation changes (if applicable) are processed
• You and your manager create a development plan for the coming year
• New goals and expectations are set
• Training or support needs are identified and planned
• Your review becomes part of your career record at OXO