Tell me about a time when you got a performance rating you disagreed with.

Question Analysis

This question is designed to assess your ability to handle feedback, manage disagreements professionally, and demonstrate self-awareness. The interviewer wants to understand how you react to criticism, whether you can reflect on and learn from the experience, and how you communicate and resolve conflicts. It's essential to show that you can approach such situations constructively and maintain a positive working relationship.

Answer

Situation: At my previous job, during our annual performance review, I received a rating that was lower than I expected. The feedback indicated that my communication with cross-departmental teams needed improvement.

Task: I believed that I had been effectively collaborating with other teams and was surprised by this assessment. I felt it was important to understand the specifics behind the feedback and to address any perceived issues.

Action: I requested a follow-up meeting with my manager to discuss the feedback further. During the meeting, I asked for specific examples and clarification on the areas of concern. I actively listened to the feedback and shared my perspective, highlighting instances where I had successfully communicated with other departments. I also sought advice on how I could improve in this area.

Result: Through this discussion, I gained a clearer understanding of the expectations and areas where I could enhance my communication skills. I took proactive steps, such as setting up regular check-ins with cross-departmental teams and seeking feedback from peers. As a result, in the subsequent review, my communication skills were recognized as a strength, and I received a higher performance rating. This experience taught me the value of seeking clarity, being open to feedback, and continuously improving my skills.