This is the time of year that always reminds me that it is the beginning of the work year. The kids go back to school and summer vacations are over; it’s a new beginning. It is also a good time to make sure that all of your documents are in place and accurate.

Here are a few things I recommend you consider as you start the new work year:

• Review your appointment letter to make sure it is accurate.

Of course, you should do this when you first receive it, but it’s always a good idea to double check. Mistakes in job titles, appointment types and dates can—and do—happen, and may be missed the first time around. If you were promoted during the year, make sure the changes in title and salary level (SL) rank are correct.

If you have any questions about it, ask your UUP chapter for help.

• Make an appointment with Human Resources to review your personnel file.

This exercise is often overlooked by members, but it is important to check your file and make sure that you are comfortable with its contents.

Sometimes documents are included that you are unaware of, and sometimes there are items that are missing from your personnel file. If you review the contents of your file every year, it is far less likely that things will fall through the cracks. And, if they should, you will have a better chance of noticing and correcting it.

• Review your performance program to make sure you are performing the duties that were outlined for you during the current period.

If you are having difficulties with any of your duties and responsibilities, you should speak to your supervisor and ask for help or training, if needed.

UUP members sometimes agree to duties and responsibilities at the beginning of the year, only to find out they’ve “bitten off more than they can chew.” It’s important to have an open dialogue with your immediate supervisor.

If your performance program is overly ambitious, you may need to have it adjusted. It is vital that you are able to do all of your duties well. Remember, you will be evaluated on what is in your performance program.

• Consider if it’s time to ask for a promotion or salary increase.

Once you’ve reviewed your appointment letter, personnel file and performance program—and found everything in order—it may be time to consider asking for a promotion or raise.

If your personnel file contains some “good job” letters or otherwise proves that you’ve advanced in your career, and your performance program and evaluations also show you have become an asset to the college, why not ask for a promotion or salary increase?

UUP has prepared a booklet to help guide you through the process, left.

The guide is easily accessible on our website at www.uupinfo.org. Click on “Reports/Guides” on the left-hand toolbar and you’ll find the easy-to-understand guide in a PDF format.

You can also stop by your chapter office to pick up a paper copy. While you’re there, feel free to ask your chapter leaders for additional help.

You can also contact me at UUP?headquarters at (518) 640-6600 or by e-mail at jmarino@uupmail.org.