Completing a Review and Beginning the Next Year Review

The change of the fiscal year marks the time that the end-of-the-year reviews are completed and submitted to HR.  It is also the best time for setting goals and providing clearly defined expectations for the coming year.  Here is a suggestion of how most of both processes could be accomplished in one meeting.

When you meet for your discussion over your end-of-the-year review, take notes on the side about anything that should carry over into next year's goals and expectations.  Complete the current year review.  Then, at the end of this conversation, from the notes you have been taking, talk about what can be entered as goals and expectations for the upcoming year.  This could include such things as carry-over projects from last year, major projects that are coming up, specific skills or abilities for development, and specific objectives for any areas under "Style" that needs improvement. Clarify these and decide who will start next year's review and enter this information.  Please note that both the end-of-the year review and next year's reviews are able to be opened and edited during July and August.   To help avoid confusion, it is generally best to finish the current end-of-the-year review and submit it to HR first, then open next year's review and set goals and expectations for the upcoming year. 

You can go ahead and start the review process with limited information, understanding that this is a living document that can be commented on and added to at anytime.  It is understood that some departments may be waiting for some information regarding strategic initiatives for this coming year, but you can start the process with what you know now, thereby giving some direction on things that could be worked on immediately.  Other goals may be added and others removed as priorities shift or future information and situations dictate.