Motivating Your Supervisor to Give It to You Straight | Summary and Q&A

TL;DR

Learn how to effectively seek and use feedback from supervisors to enhance your professional development.

Key Insights

• 🛝 Seek feedback from multiple sources, including supervisors, colleagues, and clients, to gain a well-rounded perspective on your performance.
• 😷 Develop the habit of actively asking for feedback, both about completed tasks and about how you can improve in future projects.
• 😒 Use feedback as an opportunity to set clear developmental goals and track your progress over time.
• 💦 When receiving feedback, focus on the specific work-related aspects being discussed rather than taking it as a personal critique.

Transcript

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Questions & Answers

Q: How can I motivate my supervisors to give me constructive feedback?

One way to motivate your supervisors is by demonstrating self-awareness of your goals and actively seeking feedback on specific skills or knowledge areas you are working on. This shows them that you are invested in your professional development and value their input.

Q: What should I do if I receive feedback that is harsh or unwarranted?

It is important to remain calm and not become defensive when receiving negative feedback. Instead, try to listen and understand the reasoning behind the feedback. If you believe there has been a misunderstanding, you can calmly explain your perspective and suggest a follow-up conversation to address any concerns.

Q: Is it appropriate to ask for positive feedback from supervisors?

While it is important to focus on areas of improvement, it is also acceptable to seek specific feedback on what you are doing well. However, it is essential to approach this request tactfully and avoid appearing needy or overly confident. Frame the question in a way that demonstrates your commitment to continuous improvement and a desire to meet their expectations.

Q: How do I deal with conflicting feedback from different supervisors?

It is crucial to understand the context of the assignments and the expectations each supervisor has. Reflect on the specific feedback received and try to identify any differences in the situational context that may have influenced their perceptions. This will help you develop a more nuanced understanding of their expectations and adjust your approach accordingly.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The webinar focuses on the importance of feedback in the workplace and how it can contribute to professional growth.

• The speakers emphasize the need for self-awareness and clear career goals when seeking feedback.

• They discuss strategies for effectively asking for feedback, including being specific in your questions and seeking feedback from multiple sources.