At one point or the other, after leaving a particular job or workplace, you may have to give a review which typically sums up “what you think” about the organization. This feedback is framed as a review because it’s primarily your individual opinion, and you’re not expected to reflect the sentiments of others. It’s a way to express your thoughts, experiences, and observations about the company.
However, it’s important to note that when providing a review about a specific company, different individuals who have worked at the same organization may have different viewpoints but this does not nullify yours. The perception of a company can be favorable to one person but unfavorable to others, depending on various factors such as:
- Their role within the organization.
- Their personal experiences and interactions.
- Their expectations and career goals.
- The company’s culture and management style.
- Work environment and conditions.
- Opportunities for growth and development.
All of the circumstances listed above can influence how each person perceives their time with the company which can lead to varying opinions.
How should I give my review as an employee?
Usually, reviews are given anonymously or not, depending on the agreement with whoever is taking the review. However, here are a few ways to perfectly give your review:
Consider who is asking for the review
Take time to understand why the review is being requested. Is it for personal purpose, growth, evaluation, or feedback? This will help you know how best to write your review and the information you should include.
Take note of your tone
Even if an organization hasn’t done a lot to satisfy you, there are better ways to communicate your grievances. Never make it look like you are holding grudges if you need your review to be formal enough. Remember that you don’t have an idea who will be ready for the review and your tone should not appear uncomfortable to the recipient. So, this means that whatever feedback you will be giving should be a construction one.
Say it as it is
There is really no need to sugarcoat things. If you had a good experience working at a place or with a particular team, say it. Write about it in detail, and let anyone who would be reading catch the nitty-gritty of how you felt working with the company. If it is the other way around, say it too. That is the essence of giving a review, it can either be good or bad depending on the person giving it. If you had a blend of both experiences, state that too.
Suggest what improvements should be
Giving reviews should not only be about what you have to say. Reviews allow you also offer suggestions for improvement which means that you can provide ideas and recommendations to make things better. Whatever your input is can help the workplace enhance the processes and products.
Address specifics in your review
When you are giving your review, provide details and examples that will enhance the clarity and credibility of your feedback, making it more actionable and valuable for the recipient. This helps whoever is getting the review to have a clearer picture of your experience and observation.
This is what a balanced review of a company looks like:
“Having worked at *** Company for the past two years, it’s been a mixed experience. On the positive side, the company truly values innovation and encourages employees to think outside the box. I’ve had the chance to work on great projects and have learned a lot, which has been fantastic for my career growth.
However, there are areas where improvement is needed. The communication within the company can be a bit inconsistent, which sometimes leads to misunderstandings amongst colleagues and the staff generally. While the company provides a creative and supportive work environment with outstanding learning opportunities, addressing communication and transparency issues could further enhance the overall experience for employees.”
If you are exiting a workplace and you have to give a review, be honest yet professional about it. Do it the right thing and do not let your emotions get the most of you.
