The annual review is a chance for all engineers to take stock of their performance in the previous year; set some goals for the following 12 months, and making some longer-term plans for professional, and potentially educational, growth. Those who simply look at the review as a chance to get a raise aren’t taking full advantage of everything an annual performance review brings to the career development equation.

Let’s take a look at some ways for you (and your career) to make the most out of your annual performance review.

Don’t Prepare for your Review at the Last Minute

Rushing at the last minute to put together some notes for your performance review is not a good idea. Make it a point to keep a project diary throughout the year detailing the challenges you faced, any innovative solutions, and your quantifiable successes. Having this at the ready should make the review a simpler and more effective process.

In short, treat your review materials as a recurring documentation project. Few engineers like to do documentation, but get over any prejudices. Spending the time now will help your career in the long run.

Set Realistic Short-Term and Long-Term Goals

Performance review time is perfect for managing short-term and long-term goals. This involves looking at last year’s goals to see if they were met, as well as spending the effort developing a new set of clearly-stated goals for the upcoming 12 months. Yearly goals should reflect tangible accomplishments that provide positive impact to your company’s bottom line.

Take the time to analyze your progress towards longer-term career goals. In fact, the scope for your long-term career hopes may go beyond your current employer. Any time spent on career reflection is worthy.

Ultimately, be positive during the review and thank your manager for the opportunity to help the company grow.

If you need any additional advice on career development in the world of engineering, talk to the experts at The Talley Group. As they are one of the leading engineering staffing agencies in the Seattle area, they have the talent to ensure your career stays on the right path. Schedule some time with them today! If you are looking for engineering jobs in Washington, contact us today.

Those of you looking for a position in the lucrative aerospace engineering field need to check out this list of states with the highest paying jobs in aviation technology. Remember as well to take into account any local cost of living data when deciding whether to make a move to a new region.

Here are the five states where it’s financially rewarding to be an aerospace engineer.

Washington: Home to Boeing and More

Considering Boeing maintains a long tradition of aircraft manufacturing in the Seattle area, it is not surprising that Washington ranks first on the list. With Metro Seattle also home to Microsoft and many other high-tech companies, it is obviously a good place to live for anyone in the engineering field.

Kansas: Not Just a Spot on the Prairie

Somewhat surprisingly, Kansas ranked number two on the list for aerospace engineering. A robust aircraft industry in “The Sunflower State,” centered on Wichita, includes over 200 aviation suppliers that employ close to 30,000 workers.

Alabama: the Rocket Industry Thrives Here

With Huntsville earning the moniker of “The Rocket City,” it makes sense that Alabama ranks highly on a list for the highest paying aerospace jobs. The city, in the northern part of the state, is the home for the U.S. Army’s Redstone Arsenal, where the Fed’s rocket and missile programs are located.

Connecticut: United Technologies’ Worldwide HQ

United Technologies Corporation’s subsidiaries include the helicopter giant, Sikorsky, as well as the airplane engine manufacturer, Pratt and Whitney. Considering UTC’s headquarters are in Connecticut, it stands to reason that high paying aerospace engineering jobs are plentiful here.

Florida and the Space Coast

In addition to being the location of Cape Canaveral and several Air Force bases, 500 aerospace companies also call Florida home. High paying aeronautics jobs here also have the added benefit of no state income tax.

If you are an aerospace engineer, Washington State and the Seattle area remain the place to be for a high-paying position. Spending some time with the experienced recruiters at The Talley Group is a great way the further your career. Since they are one of the top engineering staffing firms in the Seattle area, why don’t you give them a call today!

If you are looking for aerospace engineering jobs in Seattle Washington, search our job board today.