When we receive feedback at work, it doesn’t always feel great. But constructive feedback is an important type of input we need to achieve success in our careers. This is because we all have blind spots and we can only rely on others to point them out for us. Helpful, clear feedback allows us to accelerate our progress toward our goals…
… but only if we accept it.
Here are 5 things you should avoid doing when you receive constructive feedback— if you’re serious about accelerating your career progression:
1. NOT TAKE IT
If you’re just avoiding the negative feedback someone gives you, you are missing out on an opportunity to better yourself. This is because feedback, especially when negative, is meant to act as a tool to help you grow into the person you have the potential to be in your career. Be open to what others are telling you — it will help you move forward a lot faster than if you decide to just block it out.
2. BE EMOTIONAL
Feedback shouldn’t be confused with criticism, even though some may feel like they are the same thing. If you find yourself lashing out or feeling defensive when you receive feedback, it may be a good exercise to look within and try to determine what causes this emotional response of yours. Once you get to the root of why constructive negative feedback gets to you, you’ll be able to reframe the scenario and replace your emotional response with a more appropriate reaction.
3. FAIL TO ACT ON IT
Feedback is only useful if you act on it. Taking the feedback and acting on it not only demonstrates proactiveness on your part but also helps you improve your work down the road. Strong leaders are able to accept feedback and actually act on it. Others on your team will look up to you if you are able to demonstrate this skill.
4. TAKE IT PERSONALLY
When someone gives you negative feedback, it’s not because they have something against you but more because they believe you can do better and they want you to do better. And remember, it was probably difficult for that person to have this conversation with you. Don’t take feedback as a personal attack because it isn’t.
5. HOLD A GRUDGE
Lastly, you shouldn’t hold a grudge against the person who is providing you with the feedback. Giving someone constructive feedback takes time and effort to do adequately and if they took the time to share it with you, it’s because they care for you and your career. It is ultimately an act of kindness.
Remember, it may not feel like it at first, but the feedback you are getting from someone is being given to you because they want to help you — don’t forget to thank them for it!