Top Tips on how to prepare for and make the most of your appraisal!

Well-designed discussions about performance can be constructive and valuable experiences. To stop that last minute rush to prepare look at the following hints and tips to being more prepared for YOUR appraisal.

  • Ensure the date for the next appraisal review has been set. You should have 2 weeks notice of a pending appraisal.
  • You are entitled to an hour prior to your appraisal to prepare for the process. Use this time to consider what you have achieved and what resources you can gather to support this.
  • Think about what motivates you? How can you use this to benefit your patients and team? Do you need development/training/support to achieve this?
  • Think about what you want to achieve and how you would like to do this.
  • Log on to the U learn site to familiarise yourself with the site mylearn.
  • My learn allows documents to be uploaded and stored.Start early and collect them throughout the year, avoiding the last minute rush.
  1. Letters from relatives about good care given.
  2. E mails that support extra activities undertaken.
  3. Gather certificates to courses that have been attended.
  4. Collect evidence of any continuing professional development.
  5. Proof of quality improvement activity.
  6. Multi-source feedback, e.g. using the new appraisal system allows you to request feedback from colleagues you have worked with.
  • Consider areas for improvement. Be honest about what you feel you could do better at and what sort of support you need.
  • Enter your appraisal with an open mind. It is your appraisal! Try to enjoy the process!
  • Following your appraisal aim to book a date in for 6 months’ time so that you can review your own progress and any blockages addressed. If you can, try to meet with your manager quarterly to review your progress.
  • Use supervision sessions during the year, to go over any pertinent points of the appraisal. This should help you bring to life the objectives you have agreed and make the process more meaningful.
  • Ensure you have an appraisal date in your diary at least 6-8 weeks before your increment date is due to ensure you receive your pay progression when it is due.