The new year is a good time to reflect on your performance and set yourself new goals. Follow the ten point checklist below to direct your thinking and compile the information you need to create an appropriate personal development plan.

1. Review the abilities and knowledge you need for your job; research any relevant published frameworks (eg from your professional body).

2. Prepare a checklist with specific indicators of competence; assess yourself by scoring how well you meet each indicator.

3. Approach other people whose opinion you value, or whose perceptions of you are important, and ask them to assess you as well.

4. Review your work performance for evidence confirming your abilities; analyse any problems to see where your weaknesses were a factor.

5. Confirm that you understand the business, its key drivers and performance indicators, and the contribution you and your team make to it.

6. Confirm you have the legal and technical knowledge you need, keep up to date with the information you need and use it effectively.

7. Examine how well you prioritise, set objectives, and implement plans.

8. Assess your working relationships and your ability to build teams, motivate employees, communicate effectively and influence people.

9. Assess how well you manage employees’ performance and their training and development.

10. Evaluate your attitude, creativity, self-confidence and ability to manage stress, and how well you manage your own personal development.

Cardinal Rules

Do:
• focus on skills which are important for your job
• assess yourself honestly, and encourage others to do so
• ensure skills are underpinned by any necessary knowledge
• look for evidence from your actual performance
• use your assessment to plan your personal development.

Don’t:
• ignore surprising or negative assessments
• expect to be perfect
• be complacent about weaknesses.

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