Understanding Your Performance Rating

Your annual performance rating typically falls into one of several categories. While the exact scale may vary, here's what different ratings generally mean:

• Exceptional/Outstanding: You consistently exceeded expectations across all areas and made significant contributions beyond your role
• Exceeds Expectations: You regularly delivered above-standard performance and achieved strong results
• Meets Expectations: You successfully fulfilled your role requirements and consistently achieved your goals—this is solid, valued performance
• Needs Improvement: You showed gaps in performance that need to be addressed with support and development
• Unsatisfactory: Your performance fell significantly short of expectations and requires immediate improvement

Remember: "Meets Expectations" is not a negative rating. It means you're doing your job well and contributing effectively to OXO. Not everyone can exceed expectations every year, and consistent solid performance is highly valued.

How This Differs from Other Reviews

It's helpful to understand how the annual review fits with the other performance processes at OXO:

Think of it as a pyramid: Your quarterly self-assessments help you reflect and grow. Your quarterly goal reviews measure your progress on specific objectives. Your annual review sits at the top, bringing everything together into one comprehensive evaluation.

If You Receive a Lower Rating Than Expected

If your annual review rating is lower than you hoped, it can feel disappointing. Here's how to respond constructively:

• Ask for specific examples of where you fell short
• Listen carefully to the feedback without becoming defensive
• Work with your manager to create a clear improvement plan
• Ask what success looks like and how you'll know you're improving
• Request regular check-ins to monitor your progress
• Focus on learning and growth rather than dwelling on disappointment
• Remember that one year's review doesn't define your entire career

Using Your Review to Build Your Career

Your annual performance review is one of the most valuable career development tools you have. Use it to:

• Understand your strengths: Identify what you do best and how to leverage those skills
• Target development areas: Know exactly what skills to build for future growth
• Set meaningful goals: Align your personal objectives with what OXO values
• Plan your career path: Discuss with your manager what's next for you at OXO
• Seek opportunities: Identify projects, training, or experiences that will help you grow
• Build your track record: Strong annual reviews open doors to advancement and new opportunities

Tips for Success

Here's how to set yourself up for a strong annual performance review:

• Don't wait until review time: Focus on strong performance throughout the entire year
• Communicate regularly: Keep your manager informed of your progress, challenges, and achievements
• Take your quarterly reviews seriously: They all contribute to your annual rating
• Seek feedback often: Don't wait for formal reviews to understand how you're doing
• Document as you go: Keep track of your wins throughout the year—they're easy to forget by January
• Be professional and reliable: Maintain good discipline in attendance, conduct, and work quality
• Show initiative: Look for ways to contribute beyond just meeting minimum requirements
• Support your team: Strong collaboration and teamwork are noticed and valued
• Keep learning: Pursue development opportunities and show you're committed to growth

Remember: Your annual performance review is not something to fear—it's an opportunity to reflect on your growth, celebrate your achievements, and plan for an even better year ahead. OXO conducts these reviews because we're invested in your success and want to ensure you have the clarity, feedback, and support you need to thrive. Approach your annual review as a partnership between you and OXO to help you reach your full potential.