The Importance of Asking for Performance Feedback

Do you know if you're doing well at your job? More importantly, do you know if others (including your direct supervisor) think you are doing well?

Sometimes the days, weeks, and months pass by so fast in such a busy haze of work that you don't have time to assess your performance. Then, as you gear up for your annual review, you're in the dark. Might you get you promotion this year? What do your co-workers think of you? Take charge of your career by removing uncertainty from the equation--ask for specific feedback at least once a month from someone at your workplace. Being proactive about your performance status will give you targeted advice on where you excel and where you need improvement. Just finished a big project? Schedule a one-on-one with your manager to discuss how it went, where you thrived, and what you can do differently next time. Work side-by-side with the same people every day? Shoot a co-worker an email to ask how she thought you handled a recent stressful situation. Do you have clients you deal with on a regular basis? The next time you talk, check in to see if they're getting everything they need from you. Soliciting feedback not only shows you're invested in your career and in improving your skills as an employee, but it also demonstrates you are committed to working toward the future of your workplace.