We all want to get better at our jobs, but thinking about how to ask for feedback at work can make us... well, uncomfortable. The good news? Learning how to request feedback – and build on it in a constructive way – can actually become your secret weapon for career growth.
When you ask for feedback at work, you're showing your boss that you're truly invested in your job and eager to grow, while providing them – and yourself! – with the opportunity to identify areas and strategies for improvement. It also helps keep you top of mind when it comes to promotions, raises and prime assignments.
Just started a new role? That’s it’s especially important to ask for feedback at work. In those early days, you're establishing your reputation and work habits with a new employer. Regularly asking for feedback during this period shows initiative and helps you quickly align with your new team's expectations. It also allows you to course-correct early on, helping prevent minor misunderstandings from becoming major issues down the line.
Understanding the why and when of asking for feedback is great, but who to ask for feedback can be just as important as how to ask for feedback. Think of feedback as coming in two varieties: formal and informal.
Formal feedback usually comes from your direct supervisor during performance reviews or one-on-one meetings. It's like a structured conversation with clear goals, and often involves paperwork.
Informal feedback is more like a chat. Maybe you have a mentor at work or a group of trusted colleagues you can turn to for honest advice. This type of feedback is more relaxed and generally off the record.
Both kinds are valuable in their own way. While formal feedback might carry more weight when you're eyeing a promotion, don't underestimate the power of informal insights. They can offer fresh perspectives on ways to excel in your role that you might not get through official channels.
How to Ask for Feedback at Work – 6 Tips
There are many ways to ask for feedback at work – and whichever you choose, it helps to prepare. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
Before considering how to ask for feedback, take a step back and consider why you want it in the first place. Prepare a goal and a few questions so the person you’re speaking to understands the intent behind your request. For example, you might ask, “How did my recent presentation align with the team's goals?” or “Is there any way I could be more efficient in managing client communications?”
Don't just ask at the beginning of your role. Learn how to request feedback after completing major projects, during annual performance reviews or when you're transitioning to new responsibilities.
When seeking input from your supervisor or mentor, it's best to put it on the calendar. This way, you can properly gather your thoughts, and they'll have time to reflect on your work and develop thoughtful, well-rounded feedback. For more casual feedback, a quick chat or email exchange can also be effective — key milestones and formal meetings aren’t the only ways to ask for feedback.
When you're receiving constructive criticism, don't just sit there nodding. Take notes, writing down key points and asking questions to dig deeper. If something’s unclear, don't hesitate to ask for more details. Think of it as a two-way street — your supervisor is sharing insights, but it's up to you to make sure you really understand and can act on them.
A key lesson in learning how to ask for feedback is checking your ego at the door. Resist becoming defensive during feedback sessions. Remember that you and the other person are working toward the same goal and are committed to your continued success. If you're hearing something unexpected, try saying, “Thank you for that perspective. I hadn't considered it that way.” This keeps the conversation open and demonstrates you're willing to reflect on new insights.
Protect your professional reputation by avoiding these behaviors that damage your influence at work.
Set a specific time frame, like a month, to assess your progress. For example, after implementing feedback on client communication, schedule a follow-up check-in with your supervisor to discuss improvements.
Knowing how to ask for feedback at work takes a bit of courage, but it’s a crucial step toward becoming the best version of your professional self.
By approaching these conversations with an open mind and a clear plan, you’re not just hearing a critique but actively working on making real improvements. This commitment to continuous growth can benefit you now and as you progress in your career.
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