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How do I write a strong self-review?

Practical tips for the self-review stage — be specific, use examples and numbers, tie to your goals, and stay honest and concise. Drafts autosave.

~4 min read · For employee, all · Updated 1 Aug 2026

Quick answer

Write about what you actually did, using specific examples and real numbers, and tie each point to your goals. Be honest about growth areas and keep it concise. Your draft autosaves as you go, your manager reads it, and it is due by the cycle deadline.

What makes a self-review strong?

  • Be specific. Name the project, the task, the outcome.
  • Use numbers. Percentages, counts, and timelines show real impact.
  • Tie it to goals. Connect each point to a goal you were set for the cycle.
  • Be honest about growth. Note one or two areas you want to improve.
  • Keep it concise. A few clear points beat long, vague paragraphs.

What does a good example look like?

Compare a vague line with a strong one:

Vague:  "I worked hard on the payroll project and did a good job."

Strong: "I led the payroll migration for 120 employees, finished it two
         weeks early, and cut monthly processing time from 6 hours to 2.
         Next, I want to learn advanced reporting to go further."

How do I write mine, step by step?

  1. Open Reviews

    Go to Reviews in the sidebar to find your current self-review.
  2. Write against each goal

    Add specific examples and numbers for each area.
  3. Note growth areas

    Mention one or two things you want to improve.
  4. Review and submit

    Read it once more, then submit before the deadline.

What about saving and deadlines?

  • Your work autosaves as a draft, so you can write in short sessions.
  • The cycle has a deadline — submit before it so your manager has time to review.
  • Once your manager reads it, they add their own rating and comments.

Frequently asked questions

Will I lose my work if I close the page?
No. Your self-review autosaves as a draft, so you can come back and finish it later.
Who reads my self-review?
Your reporting manager reads it as part of the appraisal cycle, so write it for them.