MSPB: The STAR technique allows you to demonstrate your competencies and contributions in a way that is both concrete and memorable. Image: 3rdtimeluckystudio/Shutterstock.com
Following is an article from an MSPB publication offering tips for federal employees to document their accomplishments for performance appraisals.
As Federal employees, we are accustomed to the annual ritual of performance appraisals. It is a time for reflection, introspection, and a fair evaluation of our accomplishments over the past year. However, many of us struggle with articulating our achievements in a manner that truly reflects our contributions. Therefore, as you approach this year’s performance appraisal season, you should consider a proven strategy to help showcase your accomplishments effectively—the STAR technique. It can significantly improve the clarity with which you communicate your accomplishments and their impact.
Summarize each accomplishment. STAR is an acronym that stands for situation, task, action, and result. The STAR technique is a structured approach to answering questions and presenting information. It is often recommended to both hiring managers1 and applicants2 preparing for job interviews. It is also an excellent tool for summarizing your accomplishments before your appraisal. To get started, for each accomplishment, write down:
Situation: Begin by setting the stage. Describe the context within which you performed a task or faced a challenge at work. Be specific but concise.
Task: Explain the responsibility or issue you were assigned or encountered. What was the problem you needed to solve? Was it a routine task or something new?
Action: Describe the steps you took to address the task or challenge. Highlight your initiative, leadership, problem-solving, and any other competencies you employed.
Result: Present the outcome of your actions. Be sure to quantify the impact where possible. Did you save time, increase efficiency, improve customer satisfaction, or achieve a significant project milestone?
STAR in your performance discussion. STAR technique narratives are also useful when discussing these achievements with your supervisor. Your accomplishment summaries can help you articulate your achievements in a clear, concise, and compelling manner. Once you have the above written down:
Prepare: Reflect on your work over the past year. Identify the key accomplishments you want to highlight. Make sure that you have a STAR narrative for each key accomplishment.
Practice: Before your appraisal, practice with your STAR narratives. This will help you present your accomplishments smoothly and confidently. It will also give you a chance to refine your descriptions and make sure they are as clear and impactful as possible.
Present: Then, during the appraisal discussion with your supervisor, use your STAR narratives to discuss your achievements. Be sure to tailor your descriptions to your audience. Remember, your supervisor might not be familiar with every project or task you have worked on. Provide enough context to make your narrative understandable but keep it brief and focused.
Why STAR works. The STAR technique allows you to demonstrate your competencies and contributions in a way that is both concrete and memorable. It lets you tell a story, which is far more engaging and impactful than a dry list of tasks and responsibilities. It also forces you to focus on outcomes and results, which are often the most important part of your performance from a supervisor’s perspective.
The STAR technique can be a powerful tool in your self-assessment toolkit. It is an opportunity to shine, to show your supervisor the value you bring to your role, and to ensure that your accomplishments are recognized and rewarded. So, as performance appraisal time approaches, take time to reflect on your achievements using the STAR technique. You—and your supervisor—might be surprised at how much you have accomplished.
5 Steps to Protect Your Federal Job During the Shutdown
Over 30K TSP Accounts Have Crossed the Million Mark in 2025
The Best Ages for Federal Employees to Retire
Best States to Retire for Federal Retirees: 2025
Primer: Early out, buyout, reduction in force (RIF)
See also,
OPM Guidance Addresses Pay Issues arising During, After Shutdown