During your time at any job, it’s likely that you will receive feedback from your supervisors or coworkers. While positive feedback about your performance can feel great, receiving more constructive feedback can be hard to hear. It may be uncomfortable to learn more about how you can improve or better meet expectations, but in the long run, it's an important aspect of your personal and professional growth. We share some reasons why feedback is your friend!

Feedback is informative

Constructive feedback helps you learn how you can improve your performance. Imagine going to class all quarter or semester and not receiving grades from your professors on your assignments or exams. How would you know if you’re passing or failing if no one gives you any information? This applies to the workplace, too! When you receive insights on how to improve, you can sharpen your professional skills over time, which can help you become a better employee in almost any job.

Feedback shows that someone cares enough to help you improve

If someone is willing to provide you with helpful, honest feedback, it means they believe in your ability to improve and succeed. This may be hard to believe in the moment, since it can feel personal. However, your boss or coworkers taking time to help you get back on track and improve means they think you are capable of learning and growing. 

Feedback builds resilience

Being open and receptive to feedback is a skill that takes time and practice to master. How you react is an indicator of your willingness to learn and grow. It makes you more resilient because it empowers you to learn from your mistakes and to think of new ways to get back up and try again.

Receiving feedback never feels good at first, but reframing it as an opportunity for growth can help you better understand yourself and learn new ways to improve. You should also make sure to ask for feedback, especially if you haven’t received it yet! It can be challenging and uncomfortable, but it'll help you grow in the long run.

How to cope with unexpected feedback

First off, take a deep breath and remember that it doesn't define you. Look at it as a chance to improve and grow. Separate your emotions from the feedback and focus on the specifics. Instead of focusing on the negative, try to identify actionable steps for improvement.

It's okay to feel a bit shaken, but remember that it's not a personal attack. Share your thoughts with someone you trust, like a friend or mentor, to gain different perspectives. Embrace the learning opportunity as something that will move you forward in your career.

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