Q: I recently received a very upsetting performance review. My supervisor prefaced this evaluation by saying, "Don't be alarmed by the numbers. These reviews are just to show that people are doing their jobs, so I never give anyone high ratings." She then handed me a form showing that, on our 1-4 rating scale, I had received all twos.

Having such a bad review on my record could make future transfers or promotions difficult. What should I do about this?

A: I don't know why you received a poor evaluation, but I do know that your manager isn't telling you everything. The fact that she "never gives high ratings" doesn't explain a review which is consistently below average. You received these scores for a reason, so someone owes you an explanation.

See if your HR manager can either offer an explanation or investigate possible inequities. But whatever you do, don't ignore this warning sign. Unless you resolve whatever issues led to these disappointing ratings, your next review is liable to look just like this one.

- Tribune Content Agency