Maria G. Hernandez, PhD

One of the toughest things to do is to ask for feedback on a project. But if you don't ask, you may miss key opportunities to improve your work performance and advance your career. Here are three important steps before you knock on your bosses door: First, be specific about what you will ask for feedback. Don't come with a laundry list of questions but be prepared to focus on specific questions. Second, take time to frame your question with key information. For example, when I gave my presentation on our newest product I tried to emphasize the most important features of our new product. Do you feel I did a good job highlighting those? What would you have done differently. This helps your boss focus on exactly what you want. Last, don't feel obligated to react to all the feedback in the moment. Of course you should say thanks for any positive feedback but sometimes we should think before we react to any negative feedback. You can always say, Thank you for your honesty. I plan to review what you've said and take all of this into account. This gives you time to reflect and assess what aspects of the feedback you can integrate into your next presentation. Tell me about your feedback moment.