What are the best practices for conducting a self-evaluation?

Set individual goals for yourself each year. Commit to a project tracking list so that at the end of the year you can go back and review what you've accomplished. Choose 3-5 colleagues for a 360 degree that you've worked with throughout the year.

Some ways to get started with self evaluation, especially if lacking an established format or method, is to conduct a 360-degree approach in combination with a SWOT analysis. The 360-degree approach involves collecting feedback from various perspectives, including self reflection and feedback from supervisors, peers, subordinates (if applicable), and sometimes, external sources. This comprehensive method provides a holistic view of an individual's performance and capabilities. Combining this with a self SWOT analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) enhances the depth and effectiveness of the evaluation.

First, start by reflecting on your own performance, achievements, challenges, and areas for improvement. Identify your strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats based on your own observations and experiences. Next, gather feedback from various sources. Consider using a survey to save time, access a wide range of respondents, and to allow anonymous, unrestricted feedback . As well, a survey will afford you the ability to gather and quantify meaningful data that can be analyzed and compared over time. This will allow you to identify patterns, trends, and areas of improvement more objectively. Be sure to organize your documentation accordingly and store for future reference. This documentation can serve as a valuable baseline.

If using the self SWOT analysis, start by creating an analysis grid as follows: Divide a large sheet of paper or a whiteboard into four quadrants and label them separately - strengths (internal), weaknesses (internal), opportunities (external), threats (external). Next, collect information relevant to each. This may require data analysis (survey responses), brainstorming sessions, or discussions with team members or stakeholders. Strengths will include positive attributes, skills, resources, achievements. Weaknesses will involve areas for improvement, skill gaps, or internal challenges. Opportunities will include external trends, market changes, or potential areas for growth. And threats will involve external and economic factors.

After gathering data, prioritize identified factors within each quadrant based on their significance and impact. Use a ranking system to determine which are most critical. Facilitate a discussion and encourage participants to share perspectives and insights. Document key points and examples. Explore connections between quadrants to examine which strengths can be used to capitalize on opportunities and how weaknesses can be addressed to mitigate threats. Look for synergies and dependencies between factors. Highlight your strengths but don't turn a blind eye to the opportunities that exist among threats and weaknesses. Actionable insights can inform strategic decision making and turn pain points into positive outcomes via a proactive mindset.

I always recommend starting a journal when entering a new job position. I start with job duties and outline daily tasks, weekly tasks monthly tasks and I incorporate goals, achievements, and areas of needed improvement.