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What to Do When You Receive Bad Feedback From Your Boss

Published Fri Jun 16 2023

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Getting bad news is always tough. It’s even tougher when it’s coming from your boss. It’s especially tough when that feedback isn’t delivered appropriately and you feel undervalued and demoralized. There are three common types of poorly delivered feedback—“drive-by” feedback, where the boss quickly delivers criticism without proper context or guidance; “blunt force” feedback, which is excessively harsh and lacks constructive elements; and “silent treatment” feedback, where the boss avoids addressing issues altogether. There are several ways to address these situations, though. First, you must manage your emotions by staying calm and refraining from reacting impulsively. Next, you should seek clarity by asking specific questions to better understand the feedback and the boss’s expectations. Maintaining an open mindset and considering the feedback as an opportunity for growth is essential. You should also feel confident to engage in a dialogue with your bosses about the feedback. By expressing your perspective respectfully, you can foster a constructive conversation and potentially address any misunderstandings. Additionally, you should proactively seek feedback from other sources, such as peers or mentors, to gain a broader perspective on your performance. After the feedback is delivered, take a moment for self-reflection and learning. You should focus on areas of improvement and develop an action plan to address any identified weaknesses. Seeking additional support, such as training or coaching, can be beneficial.

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