It can be hard to write an appraisal letter. You want to ask your boss for a promotion, but you don’t want to come off as entitled. You need to use the right language to create an effective letter.When you feel like it’s time for a promotion, you may wonder why your boss doesn’t see your potential. Your negative emotions about your employer passing you over may bubble to the surface. However, you need to keep the letter focused on a positive future rather than a negative past. If you accidentally slide into entitled or angry writing, your boss may see you as someone who does not have a future within the company.You can learn more about the language to use by reading through our appraisal letter templates and writing tips. See the best writing tips in action to better prepare to craft your own letter.
Appraisal Letter Template
Fletcher Mills has been working for the same company for three years. He believes he should get a promotion, so he wrote to ask his boss, Nina Blanchet, to evaluate him. Fletcher is not writing about a particular job opening. Instead, he simply wants consideration for a general promotion. Notice how Fletcher makes himself seem competent without coming across as entitled.
Dear Nina Blanchet,
As you know, I have been a dedicated sales representative at HammerToad Brewing and Business for three years. I would like you to appraise the work I have done for the company. I believe this evaluation will lead you to see I am ready for a promotion. My strong communication skills, dedication to customer service, and ability to solve problems will serve me well in a higher-level position.
In my current position, I talk with customers, both new and established, on a daily basis. We have face-to-face meetings and phone conversations about how HammerToad can meet their needs. Not only am I comfortable talking with everyone, but I also can explain technical details in a way that makes sense to those who don’t understand. I know the customer is the backbone of HammerToad, which is why I strive to make every interaction a positive one.
My notable sales numbers prove I’m good with customers, but I also have a knack for solving internal problems. I acted as mediator between two fellow sales representatives when our direct supervisor, Jill Goodie, was busy. The conflict was able to reach a quick resolution thanks to my timely intercession.
Thank you for taking time out of your busy schedule to evaluate my work. I look forward to talking with you more about a promotion in the near future.
Sincerely,
Fletcher Mills
How To Write an Appraisal Letter
An appraisal letter tells your boss you want to an evaluation and consideration for a promotion. You can either write about a specific job opening or simply let your employer know you’re ready for more responsibilities.
As you sit down to write an appraisal note, you need to think about your audience. You should write this letter to someone in your company who has control over promotions, which means this person may not know you. If necessary, you should start your letter off with an introduction. Share your current position and how long you have been working at the company.
Next, be specific about why you’re writing. In the appraisal letter template, Fletcher’s second sentence in the note told his boss he wanted to an appraisal for a promotion. Getting to the point quickly will help your employer better understand the nature of your correspondence.
After that, briefly discuss why you think you deserve a promotion. Remember to look at your impressive skills and accomplishments. When possible, point out how you are an asset to the company rather than mention how a promotion will help you. Mention the name of your direct supervisor to make it easier for your boss to learn more about you.
Finally, find a strong end for your letter. Thank your reader for taking the time to review your work, and suggest a next step. For example, Fletcher mentioned that he expected to talk with Nina about a promotion. You can say something, such as “I look forward to hearing from you,” to help your boss understand your expectations.
What To Avoid in Your Appraisal Letter
Part of creating a strong appraisal letter is maneuvering through the common pitfalls. For example, you should avoid comparing yourself to your competition. Sure, you may be better at analyzing spreadsheets than your cubicle mate, but it’s more effective for you to focus on your strengths rather than point out anyone else’s weaknesses.
When you have to ask your boss for something, such as consideration for a promotion, you need to avoid using needy language. Yes, you’re asking for a favor. You want your boss to evaluate you for a new role, so it’s okay to show gratitude. However, that does not mean you need to beg. Instead of groveling, lay out your experiences and skills to show you deserve a promotion.
Depending on your history with the company, you may feel like you deserve a promotion, but avoid using phrases such as “I deserve.” Instead of using entitled language, explain to your employer how a promotion for you would be beneficial for the company.
How To Follow Up After Sending Your Appraisal Letter
The hard work isn’t over once you have completed your appraisal letter. Following up with your boss about the contents of the note can help lead to the promotion you’re seeking. If you don’t talk to your employer after sending the letter, your desire for a promotion may get lost in a sea of paperwork.
Thankfully, the follow-up is fairly easy. Simply peek your head into your manager’s office to ask him or her if he or she received the letter. If you work in a larger company, you may need to schedule an appointment. During this discussion, you can reiterate why you are a good candidate for a promotion or a raise. Let your employer know what type of a position you think would fit your skills. You can even ask what openings the company will have in the near future.
Top 5 Appraisal Letter Writing Takeaways
1. Focus on you
Whenever you’re seeking a new position, you may think comparing yourself to the competition is a good move. However, it’s usually more effective to focus on the skills and experiences you have rather than discuss the shortcomings of your coworkers.
2. Make your point clear
If you want to let your boss know you want an evaluation for a promotion, you actually have to be direct. Don’t beat around the bush. Make a clear, definitive statement about what you want within the first paragraph.
3. Showcase your skills
It’s easy to make a list of your skills and experiences. However, if you want to show your employer why you would be good in a higher position, you need to give examples of your skills in action. Adding narratives to your correspondence can make the entire letter feel more engaging.
4. Be courteous
Bosses have a lot to do. Thank your employer for taking the time to evaluate you and review your resume.
5. Plan a next step
If you’re sending a letter in about a current opening, the next step is simple. You need an interview. However, if you’re sending a letter in about a generic promotion, the next step may be a little different. A simple phrase such as “I look forward to going over my appraisal with you soon” makes it clear you don’t expect to get a promotion tomorrow.
