Ever since I first started working, I was always a little nervous about annual reviews. Not because I thought I was doing the wrong things, like getting to work late every day or doing a poor job overall, but because having your boss to improve, did not always feel great. For some reason, especially earlier in my career, I had been conditioned to have a fight or flight response to criticism, I know I am not the only one to feel this way. But not all criticism is bad. Some criticism is actually good feedback given to help people grow their skill. Sometimes all it takes for us to benefit from the good kind of feedback is the willingness to listen.
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It's also tough being on the providing side of feedback. Earlier in my career, when I first became a supervisor I would always become concerned with my delivery. I set myself to provide feedback in the nicest way possible, but nice is not always as helpful as clear and concise. It does take practice and experience on both ends to b able to make the best out of feedback.
It's why I like the service industry; you're constantly getting feedback: from your customers, your coworkers and your managers. When you're slacking on the job you're going to hear about it immediately, not at some predetermined time in the year; it happens on the spot and during the shift. If not then, then the next time you show up for work.
I think annual reviews are a great opportunity for suggesting any interest you may have to move up in a company:)
I know exactly how you felt when I was at my last job. Usually it's more intimidating when you first start you career. Once you have some more years under your belt, you get used to it and won't take things more personally.
constructive criticism is both hard on the giver and receiver end. I think it roots a lot in a company's culture to keep it alive and healthy. Or else it easily leads to a toxic workplace.
Performance evaluations are all subjective nonsense - but the nonsense has power over all of us, so we grind our teeth and put up with them.