How to Handle Constructive Feedback

Dealing with criticism, and learning from it.

Ideally, you’ll receive feedback on your job performance well before your first performance review. If all is going well, you’ll receive lots of positive feedback and encouragement. But if you don’t, keep reading.

This may be the first time in your life that you hear something “constructive.” Call it criticism if you like, but don’t act like it’s fatal. Don’t fret. Take a deep breath. You’ll be okay.

First, make sure you pay attention to the positives. Most people don’t really hear positive feedback when they get it. Rather, they obsess over the negative, and they miss the big picture.

Second, evaluate the feedback. Don’t get defensive—even if you don’t agree with it, there may be some truth there. Get some understanding about what it means. Ask for clarification. Ask for guidance in addressing the issues. Think over what’s been said and then develop an action plan to address the issues. Don’t forget to go back to your boss, show him your plan, ask for input, and get his approval for it.

And most important, don’t make it bigger than it is. Many people receive constructive feedback at work and go on to successful