How to Ask for a Performance Review by Email
If your company does not have a regular review cycle -- or your review is overdue -- you can ask for one yourself. It shows initiative, not neediness.
Proactive Review Request
RecommendedHi [Manager Name], I was hoping to schedule a performance check-in when you have a chance. I would love to get your feedback on how things have been going and discuss any areas where I can continue to grow. I know formal reviews are not always on a set schedule, so I wanted to be proactive about it. Would you have 20-30 minutes sometime in the next couple of weeks? Thanks, [Your Name]
Subject Line
Request for Performance Check-In
Alternative Versions
Short Version
directHi [Manager], would you have time in the next couple weeks for a performance check-in? I would love your feedback on how things are going. Happy to work around your schedule.
Conversational Version
warmHey [Manager], I have been thinking about how I can keep growing in my role, and I would really value your input. Would you be up for a quick performance chat sometime soon? Even 20 minutes would be great. No agenda needed — just a check-in.
Formal Version
professionalDear [Manager], I would like to request a formal performance review at your earliest convenience. As we do not have a scheduled review cycle at the moment, I want to be proactive about understanding how I am performing and where I can improve. I am happy to prepare a self-assessment in advance if that would be helpful. Thank you, [Your Name]
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When to Use This
Use this when: * Your company does not do regular reviews * Your review is overdue by months * You want feedback before asking for a raise or promotion * You genuinely want to grow and improve * You are preparing for a career conversation
What Not to Say
Avoid: * Making it sound like a raise request in disguise * Complaining that you have not been reviewed * Sounding entitled to positive feedback * Asking during a stressful crunch period * Being vague about what you want from the meeting
Follow-Up Message
If You Need to Follow Up
If they agree but do not schedule it: "Hi [Manager Name], just wanted to follow up on the performance check-in we discussed. I am flexible on timing -- would any of these work? [Suggest 2-3 times]."