Preparing for Performance Reviews

Invest in You 

There’s long been a lot of talk about the effectiveness of performance reviews. Some organisations have radically overhauled their PDR systems, so much so that some of them could be even be accused of having thrown the ‘baby out with the bath water’.

Many UK and European-based law firms have opted to bring the timing of their PDRs in line with their northern hemisphere cousins. Some have moved to use online systems, saving untrained managers from the awkwardness that usually pervades the dreaded once a year discussion. For many, however, the usual in-person remains popular, with various partner catch ups dotted throughout the year.

No matter how your firm goes about it, preparation for a PDR meeting is key. While preparing, remember to focus on what you need to feel fulfilled and challenged and think about some things you could ask for to improve that area of your working life, as that’s what will drive true development and growth in your career. Don’t just focus on your salary.

But how do you broach the topic when there’s no sign of a performance review on the horizon? How do you prepare?

A great way to start is to invest some time in your personal development. You could use mud maps to create a plan, set some goal targets, and assess your own strengths and weaknesses. You can do anything that helps you look inwards and assess what drives you to get out of bed each morning. If from doing these types of exercises you realise you aren’t waking up excited to face your working day, it’s time to stop and think about how you’d like to move forward. What is your career lacking? Be honest with yourself and look at the bigger picture. Is what you are doing now getting you closer to where you ultimately want to be? Can you achieve this from where you are now?

Money is essential but shouldn’t be the only thing that drives your career. Professional satisfaction, purpose, and fulfilment give us far more than we realise. Make the most of your upcoming PDR meeting, go in prepared, and make sure to drive your career in the best direction for you.

For more insights into how you can best manage your next review, or to contact me, you can reach me at ac@alexcorreaexecutive.com.a

Filed under News

Date Published: 28/09/2018

Related Articles

Two professionals in a meeting
By Alex Correa September 12, 2025
This month at Alex Correa Executive, we’re celebrating an important milestone: the 7th work anniversary of Sophie Page-Warr (formerly McMenamin). As our Senior Recruitment Consultant, Sophie partners with leading Brisbane employers to connect high-calibre legal talent with private practice and in-house opportunities.
Happy lawyer
By Alex Correa August 9, 2025
Thinking about moving from private practice to in-house legal? Discover the skills, mindset, and preparation needed to make the shift successfully in Queensland.
Lawyer advising team
By Alex Correa August 9, 2025
Discover how the General Counsel role in Queensland has evolved into a strategic business leadership position, and what to look for when hiring one.
Brisbane City Landscape
By Alex Correa August 7, 2025
In this article, we pay tribute to the female legal trailblazers of Queensland and share our thoughts as to why their rise is good for the industry as a whole.
Image of Brisbane skyline
By Alex Correa July 28, 2025
Discover why in-house legal roles in Queensland are the smartest career move for lawyers in 2025. Industry trends, career pathways, and insider opportunities from Alex Correa Executive.
female in-house lawyer
By Alex Correa June 23, 2025
Discover how to recruit and retain exceptional in-house legal talent in Brisbane and Queensland with Alex Correa Executive’s proven strategies.
Black pin board with the words 'You Got This'.
By Alex Correa May 1, 2025
Confident, clear, prepared—your behavioural interview playbook for Brisbane lawyers ready to take the next career step. Learn how to answer STAR questions and prepare for legal interviews with confidence.
Lawyer dreaming about greater balance with a career in government
By Alex Correa April 17, 2025
Thinking about a career shift from private practice? Discover why more lawyers are moving into government roles and how public sector law offers impact, flexibility, and long-term career growth—plus current opportunities at Crown Law.
Female lawyer (employee) working from home
By Alex Correa April 4, 2025
The legal profession in Queensland, like many industries, has seen significant shifts in workplace expectations, particularly in the realm of hybrid and flexible working arrangements. As recruiters who specialise in the legal sector, we have witnessed firsthand how law firms and in-house legal teams are adapting to these changes—and where challenges still exist.
By Alex Correa April 1, 2025
Frequently Asked Questions on why a career in government may be your next best career move
More Posts