Tell me about a performance rating that you disagreed with.

Question Analysis

This question is designed to assess how you handle disagreements, particularly in situations involving feedback and evaluations. The interviewer is looking to understand your ability to remain professional, how you resolve conflicts, and whether you can reflect and learn from such experiences. It's important to demonstrate emotional intelligence and a constructive approach to dealing with disagreements.

Answer

Situation: At my previous job, I received a performance rating during my annual review that was lower than I expected. I had worked hard on a key project that significantly improved our team's efficiency by 20%.

Task: My goal was to understand the reasons behind the rating and address any potential misunderstandings or areas for improvement.

Action: I scheduled a meeting with my supervisor to discuss the evaluation. During the meeting, I expressed my gratitude for the feedback and asked for specific examples of where I could improve. I also shared my perspective on the project's impact and the additional responsibilities I had taken on during the year.

Result: Through open and constructive communication, we identified a few areas where clearer communication could have improved my performance perception. My supervisor acknowledged my contributions and agreed to adjust my rating. More importantly, I received valuable feedback that helped me focus on developing my skills further. This experience taught me the importance of ongoing communication and seeking feedback throughout the year, not just during formal evaluations.