In this episode of How to Survive Your Boss, Kiana and Tara dive deep into the world of performance reviews — what they are, why they matter, and how to navigate them without losing your sanity. Whether you’re dreading your first annual review or questioning the quality of feedback from your manager, this episode breaks down the different types, formats, and red flags to watch for. From real-life horror stories to actionable advice on self-advocacy and documentation, Kiana shares everything you need to protect your career, build a brag file, and survive even the shadiest of managers. If you've ever walked out of a review confused, frustrated, or gaslit — this one’s for you.
💡 Key Takeaways:
📋 Understand the purpose and structure of performance reviews — from self-assessments to 360 feedback.
🛠️ Different formats exist: written, scorecard, narrative, and binary — know what your company uses.
🚩 Major red flags to look out for: vague feedback, moving goalposts, no documentation, or all criticism with zero recognition.
🧠 Shift your mindset: Keeping your head down won’t get you noticed. Self-advocacy and visibility are essential.
📝 Create a brag file — track wins weekly to make performance reviews (and resume writing!) way easier.
🗣️ Not all feedback is created equal — only internalize input from people you respect or want to emulate.
🧨 Toxic reviews say more about the company than they do about you — assess the culture too.
TIMESTAMPS:
00:00 Introduction to Performance Reviews
01:13 Purpose and Importance of Performance Reviews
02:18 Types of Performance Reviews
08:47 Formats and Methods of Performance Reviews
20:50 Common Misconceptions about Performance Reviews
27:37 Reflecting on Work Experiences and Feedback
28:12 Understanding Relevant Feedback
30:43 Handling Performance Reviews
33:05 Identifying Red Flags in Feedback
46:17 Concluding Thoughts on Performance Reviews