Prepare for your annual review
Your annual review is a chance to assess your work, discuss pay and set goals. Preparation makes a real difference.
Three pillars of your review
1. Review the past year
Achievements, projects, challenges and skills developed.
2. Assess your objectives
What you met or missed, why and what you learned.
3. Plan ahead
New goals, career growth, training and compensation.
Negotiate a pay rise
Strong arguments
- Measurable results: revenue, savings or delivered projects.
- New responsibilities you have taken on.
- Reliable market pay data for your role.
- The value you have demonstrated over the year.
Arguments to avoid
- “I need more money” (personal circumstances alone).
- “I have been here for years” (seniority alone is not enough).
- “My colleague earns more” (comparisons can be counterproductive).
Practical tips
- Ask for the review date two or three weeks in advance.
- Quantify your impact: revenue, projects delivered and satisfied clients.
- Prepare three concrete goals for next year.
- If a raise is not possible, discuss training, remote work or a new title.
- Send a written summary after the meeting.
- Stay professional even if a request is declined.
Validation checklist
0 / 8During and after the review
In the meeting
Start positively
Thank your manager for the past year and the opportunities provided.
Present your achievements
Use facts and figures. Stay objective.
Ask questions
Discuss progression, upcoming projects, training and pay.
Practical tips
- Take notes during the meeting.
- Welcome constructive feedback.
- If a raise is declined, ask to revisit it in six months.
- Set specific, measurable and realistic goals.
- Schedule regular check-ins with your manager every three months.