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I hope you read my last article on the importance of a performance program and that you have one that is current and accurately reflects what you do for SUNY. You will be evaluated based on your performance program. In this article, I’d like to discuss the importance of the evaluation process.
The SUNY Board of Trustees policies state that all professionals are evaluated at least once a year. You should receive a written evaluation based on the duties and responsibilities listed in the performance program. Keep in mind that evaluations are an ongoing process. That is why it is important to discuss with your supervisor any and all problems you might be having with any assignment or duty as they occur. At the same time, your supervisor should discuss with you any issues that you raise during the evaluation period. This way, there should be no surprises when you discuss your formal evaluation with your supervisor.
You may be someone who receives a stellar evaluation year after year. I hope you are able to parlay that into a salary increase or promotion since that is a great time to ask. However, that is not always the case with everyone. After all, nobody does things perfectly all the time.
If you and your supervisor disagree about your evaluation and you believe you received an inaccurate assessment of your performance, there are a number of things you can do. Discussing your evaluation with your supervisor is very important.
If any of the statements in your evaluation are unclear, ask for clarification. Sometimes the wording in the evaluation can be changed to give a more accurate picture of how you performed and you can and should make suggestions. An evaluation should be used to help you excel and improve in your position throughout your career. Criticism should be constructive, not harmful.
If you need more training or help, ask for it. Sometimes the performance program you received the year before was unrealistic. It might be necessary to make changes to a performance program so that it is more realistic.
If agreement cannot be reached, you should write a rebuttal and attach it to your evaluation.
Evaluations can only be characterized as “satisfactory” or “unsatisfactory.” If the evaluation is unsatisfactory, you can appeal to the Professional Evaluation Review Committee at your chapter. Even if the “satisfactory” box is checked, if you believe the content of the evaluation is unsatisfactory, you should appeal to the committee. There is a time limit of 10 business days for requesting a review, so it is important to make the request as soon as you receive the evaluation.
Above all, keep in mind you have resources at your fingertips. Using those resources will help you gain the knowledge you need for a successful career. Your local UUP chapter can help you navigate the ins and outs of this process. Many chapters conduct workshops that are dedicated to this topic.
I am also glad to help. You can e-mail me at jmarino@uupmail.org or call (800) 342-4206.