<h1>Is it weird to dread performance reviews for not doing extra?</h1>

Feeling anxious about performance reviews when you've met expectations but haven't gone 'above and beyond' is a common experience. Many workplaces subtly encourage extra effort, creating an unspoken pressure to constantly exceed. It's understandable to anticipate scrutiny if you haven't volunteered for every extra project or worked extensive overtime, even if your core duties are well-executed.

A recent survey by Gallup found that only 33% of US employees feel engaged at work, suggesting that a significant portion are performing their roles without consistently going 'above and beyond'.

See other perspectives

Am I the only one who dreads performance reviews for not doing extra work?

Am I the Only One?

Does everyone dread performance reviews for not doing extra?

Does Everyone?

Is it normal to dread performance reviews when not doing 'extra' work?

Is It Normal?

Why do I dread performance reviews when I don't do extra work?

Why Do I?

Real stories from the community

I’m a lab tech – not, like, a scientist, just a tech. …

quiet quitting guilt

I worked at this retail place, part-time. …

quiet quitting guilt

I started this remote software support gig two years ago, right after I finally hung it up at the office. …

quiet quitting guilt

I don't know if this counts as a confession, but I'm a graphic designer for a local charity and I just… do what they tell me. …

quiet quitting guilt

I’m in my late sixties now, and I find myself looking back at these small decisions, these little rebellions, and wondering if they were actually bigger than I ever let myself believe. …

quiet quitting guilt

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prepare for a performance review if I haven't done 'extra'?▾
Focus on clearly documenting your achievements related to your core responsibilities. Highlight how you met or exceeded established goals, improved processes within your scope, or contributed to team success through your assigned work. Prepare specific examples and data if possible.
Is it bad to only do my job description and nothing more?▾
No, it's not inherently bad. Successfully fulfilling your job description means you are doing what you were hired and paid to do. While some roles benefit from initiative, consistently meeting expectations within your defined responsibilities is a valuable contribution to any organization.
What if my manager expects more than my job description?▾
If your manager consistently expects work outside your core responsibilities, it's worth having a conversation. You might ask for clarification on priorities, discuss how these additional tasks fit into your role, or inquire about formalizing new responsibilities if they are becoming a regular part of your work.

Have your own experience to share?

Share Your Story