A lot can ride on a performance review. Raises, promotions and even your future with the company can depend on it. But what happens when you feel the review isn’t fair? What if it feels like something else is going on?
This can be a distressing situation, especially if you suspect it might be setting the stage for termination. Here’s what you need to know to protect yourself.
What should happen during a performance review?
A fair performance review should be transparent and constructive. Managers should provide clear expectations and evaluation criteria. Feedback should be specific, focusing on both strengths and areas for improvement. Further, reviews should be consistent, with all employees held to the same standards.
Employees should have the opportunity to discuss their performance openly and ask questions. Reviews should be conducted by trained professionals who understand the role and its requirements.
Red flags of an unfair review
So, what if your review doesn’t feel fair? Here are some red flags to watch out for:
-
- Personal biases: If your review is based on personal opinions or stereotypes rather than your performance, it’s a major red flag.
- Changing standards: If the goals or expectations have changed without your knowledge or input, it’s a sign of an unfair review.
- Limited feedback: If your manager provides vague or generic feedback without specific examples, it’s not helpful or constructive.
- Untrained reviewers: If the person conducting your review is not qualified or trained to do so, it’s a recipe for disaster.
- Inaccurate or unclear records: Watch out for information or data that doesn’t align with what your own records or memory reflect.
Before we dive into the consequences of unfair performance reviews, here’s a crucial point to remember: you have the right to ask questions, seek clarification and dispute any inaccuracies during your review.
The impact of unfair reviews
Unfair performance reviews can have serious consequences. They can lead to wrongful termination or constructive dismissal claims, triggering costly legal battles. This is why it’s crucial for employers to ensure fair evaluations and for employees to understand their rights.
If you think your performance review was unfair, it’s vital to take action. Document everything, talk to HR and consider seeking legal advice.