Performance Evaluations

I don’t believe there is a person alive that does not have some degree of anxiety when performance evaluation time rolls around. It’s only natural.

I always tend to rethink the past year and put myself in the City Manager’s position. Have I done what he expected me to do? Have I succeeded? Have I made him (the City Manager) successful? Can he use me in more situations than just in my role as fire chief? Have I made Jason proud that he hired me?

Moreover, have I inspired firefighters and officers to set high standards? Have I demonstrated how to deal with difficult issues? Have I taught them what will be important to their futures? Have I been the kind of role model and mentor they need to see? Have I led by example? Have I demonstrated my strengths at the proper time? Have I acknowledged my weaknesses? Have I taken responsibility for what has not gone particularly well? Have I been honest in every setting? Have I forgiven those who may have offended me? Have I rewarded outstanding performance? Have I been seen as a positive force for change and understanding? Have I demonstrated integrity by doing what I say I’m going to do? Can they count on me? Have I been accessible enough? Have I done the right thing in every instance? Have I made them proud that I represent them? Have I allowed them to demonstrate leadership? Have I allowed their ideas to take root? Have I set up systems that allow them to actively participate in their careers? Have I taken time to teach them everything I know? Do I challenge them enough to reach higher? Have I shown them how important it is to read meaningful books that will inspire their work and life? Have I allowed them to disagree with me? Have I allowed them to fail? Have I demonstrated my own failures? Have I shared the cautionary tales that may save their lives one day? Do I talk too much about the old days?

Most importantly, have I demonstrated what is important in life? Have I shown them the right priorities in life? Have they seen me demonstrate compassion? Have I told them it’s OK to seek help when things seem over powering? Have I shared my own experiences seeking help? Have I done a good job in showing them how to deal with personal tragedy? Have I shown them how to support one another? Have I shown the human side of our interactions – everyone has low points and needs encouragement? Have I demonstrated humility? Have I practiced servitude to them, the City Manager, and the community? Have I pointed out how short this career is? Have I encouraged them to take advantage of each day with their families and loved ones? Have I demonstrated what a meaningful life is comprised of – a loving family – a meaningful job – a cadre of friends and co-workers?

Seems like I always have a few questions on my performance I rattle around when the time draws near.