How to prepare for a performance review (and not lose your mind)

Annual performance reviews are a time to shine — and a time to freak out. In theory, the concept of a performance review sounds good. It is a formal way for employers to evaluate employees’ work habits, learn about their strengths and weaknesses, and provide constructive feedback so they can thrive in the workplace. That’s the theory, but the reality is that many employees see this as a time to put everything they do under a microscope and show their worth compared to the colleagues sitting next to them. Which doesn’t sound very good at all. Not everyone responds with a smile to the announcement of annual reviews. Claws and daggers can emerge in an instant as employees compete for boss approval. Watch the video above to see which employee response most closely matches yours during review times, but remember: work doesn’t have to be crazy!