WORKPLACE ANSWER
What should I do if I am given a poor performance review?
Receiving a poor performance review can be disappointing and worrying, but it doesn't necessarily mean your job is at risk. Understanding the feedback, responding professionally and taking positive steps afterwards can help you improve your performance and rebuild confidence.
Quick Answer
A poor performance review is intended to identify concerns about your performance and discuss ways to improve.
Listen carefully to the feedback, ask questions if anything is unclear and work with your manager to understand what improvements are expected.
What This Usually Means
A poor performance review does not automatically mean disciplinary action or dismissal.
In many organisations, it is the starting point for discussions about improving performance. Your manager may identify areas where your work has not met expectations and explain what changes they would like to see.
The review should give you a better understanding of:
• the concerns that have been identified
• why those concerns have been raised
• what good performance looks like
• what support may be available
• what happens next
Many employees successfully improve following constructive feedback.
What You Can Do
During the review
Try to:
• stay professional and avoid becoming defensive
• listen carefully to the feedback
• ask for specific examples
• make notes where appropriate
• clarify anything you don't understand
If you disagree with parts of the feedback, explain your perspective calmly and respectfully.
After the review
Take time to:
• reflect on the discussion
• review any agreed objectives
• ask for regular feedback
• identify training or development opportunities
• keep a record of your progress
Showing a willingness to improve is often viewed positively.
Things to Think About
• Do you fully understand the concerns that were raised?
• Were you given clear examples?
• Do you know what improvement is expected?
• Have you been offered appropriate support?
• What practical steps can you take before your next review?
- Your individual employment contract terms.
- The length of your service with the employer.
- Any previous informal agreements that have been made.
- How the change affects your personal responsibilities.
What Usually Happens Next
Improvement objectives are agreed
Your manager may set:
• specific performance goals
• review dates
• regular one-to-one meetings
• additional support or training
Informal monitoring
Your performance may be reviewed over the following weeks or months to assess progress.
Regular feedback should help you understand whether you're meeting expectations.
Formal performance management
If concerns continue despite support and opportunities to improve, your employer may begin a formal performance management process.
This should normally involve clear expectations, opportunities to improve and regular reviews before further action is considered.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a poor performance review mean I'll lose my job?
Not usually. A poor review often marks the beginning of a performance improvement process rather than the end of your employment.
Can I disagree with my performance review?
Yes. If you believe the feedback is inaccurate or incomplete, explain your views professionally and provide evidence where appropriate.
Should I ask for more support?
Yes. If additional training, mentoring or regular feedback would help you improve, it's reasonable to discuss this with your manager.
Related WorkAnswers
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Important: WorkAnswers provides general workplace information for UK employees. It is not legal advice and does not replace advice from a qualified professional. Workplace situations can depend on individual circumstances.
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