Discussing your work achievements can be difficult, particularly if English isn’t your first language. You might worry about incorrect grammar or inappropriate tone. If this sounds like you, you’re not alone.
With the end-of-year performance review season approaching, here’s how to overcome these communication challenges and make the meeting work for you.
Turn achievements into stories
Rather than listing completed tasks, use storytelling to bring your contributions to life. Describe the challenges you faced, the actions you took and the outcomes they created. Framing your work this way helps others understand the context behind your results and makes your achievements more memorable.
Maintain humility when sharing successes
Self-promotion can feel boastful and direct. In some cultures, it can even seem disrespectful. Balancing your successes with humility will help your key points land while ensuring your workplace wins don’t go unnoticed.
Respond without rushing
Language learners regularly feel rushed in real-time conversations. This can be due to speaking anxiety or translating thoughts from one’s native language into English. Slowing down and taking a brief pause before responding gives you the space and time to find your words, rhythm and flow.
Address concerns constructively
Sometimes, performance reviews involve difficult discussions, such as missed targets, shifting priorities or changing roles. Instead of avoiding these topics, focus on understanding different perspectives and finding solutions with your manager. This shows you are adaptable and solutions-focused.
Embrace pay and promotion discussions
Talking about salary increases and promotions can feel uncomfortable. It shouldn’t. Practising how you’ll approach these subjects in advance can increase your confidence when discussing them with your manager. To avoid sounding scripted, focus on key points and transitions, not every word.
Explore learning and development at work
Before your review, research what training is available to you. Come prepared to discuss how specific courses could help you build on areas you’d like to develop. Linking your training ideas to what the company needs shows strategic thinking and is more likely to be approved.
