Appraisals can be a nerve-wracking or uncomfortable experience for some people because they feel they are being thrown under the spotlight and evaluated against their company's expectations. It is a time at which employees have to take stock of their performance and achievements (or under-achievements) and justify their next pay increment or promotion. Here are some tips on how you can prepare and impress your boss at your appraisals.

1. Prepare, prepare, prepare

We cannot emphasize this enough. Appraisals are not meant to be a session for sharing idle chat. It is a formal system to review, assess and record your work performance. This evaluation will ultimately lead to decisions that may have a long-term effect on your career. Therefore, you must be thoroughly prepared with information and data that is relevant to your work and contributions. Ensure you have all the necessary facts and figures at your finger tips.

2. Learn to listen

Often employees go into their appraisal with lots of things they want to say, but it is equally important to listen to what your appraiser is saying. Always let your appraiser set the tone and agenda of the appraisal. At the end of the appraisal, bring up any points you would like to address that have not already been covered by your appraiser.

3. Stay professional

At all times, remain professional and refrain from any form of emotional outburst, especially if the appraisal does not go as well as you had hoped. It is important that you view constructive criticism as valuable feedback and constantly focus on your desired solutions and outcomes. Ask for clarification or explanations on any contentious issues and try to address them on the spot.

4. Mind your body language

Just like in an interview, body language plays a huge part in forming impressions. Do not sit slumped in your chair or with your arms crossed. Instead sit up straight and lean slightly forward, toward your appraiser. This makes you appear interested and open-minded. Avoid assuming a defensive or hostile stance, maintain good eye contact and pay attention.

5. Collect testimonials

What others say or think about you always seems to carry a higher value than what you say of yourself. If a colleague, superior, customer or client has written something positive about you, gather these documents and use them in your appraisals.

The appraisal process should provide a clear roadmap for where you want to go as well as the targets and goals you need to achieve by next year. At the end of the appraisal, you should always ensure that you have an understanding of your appraiser's expectations.

(Contact yangning@chinadaily.com.cn for questions and career advice).

Contributed by Will Yan, manager of consumer sales and marketing at Robert Walters Talent Consulting Ltd Beijing Office.