How to respond to a disappointing performance review

Short answer: say “I hear the concerns about my deadlines. I'll share a plan by next week.”

DON'T SAY
“I don't get why I got this rating.”
SAY THIS
“I hear the concerns about my deadlines. I'll share a plan by next week.”
Acknowledging and committing to a plan shows maturity.

When to use it

Use it when a review or rating is lower than you expected. Acknowledge the main concern and commit to a plan by a set date. You can ask questions too, but showing you've heard the feedback first makes the conversation more productive.

Example

Manager: “Deadlines were the main issue this cycle.”

You: “I hear the concerns about my deadlines. I'll share a plan by next week.”

Manager: “That would help.”

In an email or Slack message

Send the plan in writing: “Following up on my review: here's my plan to improve on deadlines, with a check-in each month.” Keep it short and concrete.

Quick drill

When you get feedback that's a bit vague.

Which sounds more confident?

Practice 10 more →

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25 phrases that make you sound confident at work

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