What is the annual performance review?
Definition of the annual performance review
The annual performance review is a time dedicated to evaluating an employee's work and performance over the past year. The annual review provides an opportunity to take stock of the commitments made by the employee and their line manager at the time of hiring or during a previous review.
The annual performance review is a key moment to address various themes related to the position and working conditions: the atmosphere, operational problems, behavioral concerns, etc. It measures the well-being of employees at work. The annual interview is a review of the past year.
The annual performance review does not share the same objectives as the professional interview. It is a roadmap for the coming year, allowing the employee's objectives, expectations and requests to be formalized. For the manager, this is an important moment in the form of a discussion to identify the employee's levers of motivation.
Don't confuse it with a professional interview.
Unlike the annual performance review, the professional interview is a mandatory meeting between employees and their managers. It helps to establish each employee's career development prospects. The employer offers internal or external training courses to support their employee in developing their career plan. A career development advisor can assist the employee in preparing for this interview.
Is the annual performance review compulsory? What does the Labor Code say?
The annual performance review is not a legal obligation. However, its implementation may be a requirement of the Collective Agreement of your establishment. If a collective agreement institutionalizes the annual interview, this meeting then becomes an obligation within the company. All employees will have to submit to it.
The annual performance review is a very useful tool for HR management. It makes it possible to carry out an annual review of human resources. It is not just an evaluation of employees. The annual performance review draws up a grid of objectives for each employee and provides information on the potential for internal employee development.
If a company with more than 50 employees wants to implement annual performance reviews, it must inform the CSE (Social and Economic Committee) of its intention. This is a mandatory administrative step. This type of review is also for employees who telework.
Why annual performance reviews matter
Why annual performance reviews matter for employers
The annual performance review has several advantages for an employer. It provides an opportunity to review the employee's objectives and the quality of their work. The employee's motivations and state of mind are highlighted.
Managers can use this dedicated time to check in on the quality of life at work. Supervisors can also ask their teams for feedback on their management style. The annual review is therefore beneficial for both the employee and the employer, thanks to this exchange of information.
Why annual performance reviews matter for employees
For employees, annual reviews are an opportunity to showcase their skills and expertise. They can request training or ask for more resources to work in good conditions.
These interviews are a perfect time to present your career plans and ask for a raise or even a promotion. Annual reviews aren't just a way to take stock of the past year; they're an opportunity to set development goals for employees.
Tips for acing your annual review
To ace your annual review, good preparation beforehand is essential. Here are some tips to help you.
Reviewing the past year
One of the first steps to get ready for this review is to look back at the past year and whether you hit the goals you set at the start. Highlight both your successes and failures. It's like a self-evaluation. The previous review is a good starting point. Use specific numbers and data to show off your achievements.
Envisioning yourself in the company
The second step is to think about your future in the company. When an employee prepares for their annual review, it's important that they think about their future within the company. This is a unique opportunity to discuss their career aspirations with their manager. The employee may want to take on other assignments or wish to receive training in order to eventually move into other roles.
Highlight your skills
The annual evaluation of employees highlights their skills. Inform your manager of the skills acquired on the job and with seniority. We're talking about soft skills. You should make this interview a conversation between you and your manager.
Written by our editorial expert
May 3, 2024
