Advice?

Anonymous

November 3,2021 at 1:34PM UTC

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Advice? Hi all, I work at a company that has amazing and rewarding work (not available at other places) and looks great on resume. Unfortunately, annual review process here appears to be very discouraging for many of my peers - small issues are magnified and people don’t get promoted or good ratings. Any advice for maintaining one’s morale in this discouraging environment? I’ve changed quite a few jobs and always gotten great reviews and had great feedback here too, so the annual review process was surprising (mostly looking for more work life balance). But I’m a bit tired of changing jobs at this point.

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AnonymousNovember 3,2021 at 1:42PM UTC
If the ratings don't have an impact on salary, just shrug your shoulders and don't worry about it. If your economic well-being is at risk, then yes, you do need to move on.
AnonymousNovember 3,2021 at 2:00PM UTC
The company keeps its employees down via these low marks so staff doesn't request raises & promotions. It's a strategic ploy most likely directed by management across the board.
Sad but true.
Kirsten BunchNovember 3,2021 at 3:01PM UTC
I have a couple of thoughts. As for as maintaining your morale, I would do a deep dive into your values and make sure you are clear on your values. Here's why - when your work is aligned with our values, you will feel motivated at and by your work. If your work/where you work goes against your values work will feel like sandpaper, no matter how hard you try to convince yourself otherwise.
The second thought is about the performance reviews. I would suggest asking for specific examples and a specific improvement action plan that your boss is on board with. Otherwise, annual performance reviews are a bunch of blah blah blah.
AnonymousNovember 3,2021 at 4:12PM UTC
Sometimes managers seeking promotions or at risk of losing their jobs become unusually hard on their teams so that they shine through. Especially the case where managers are mediocre. Covid has created both opportunities and risks so that is likely what’s at play. In such environments, it’s helpful to build 1:1 relationships and shine privately rather than in a public spotlight. I have seen some successful people stay completely silent in all group settings. Know that’s it’s just politics and you’re likely doing really well if you’re getting great feedback. If your job becomes at risk, try to look for other roles.