Hearing about what you’re not doing well at work can feel bad. That doesn’t make you “defensive” or “shut down to feedback.” It just means you’re human and that you care about your performance — both good things.
When Your Boss Gives You Bad Feedback, Badly
The three most common mistakes managers make when delivering feedback — and how to respond.
June 12, 2023
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Summary.
It’s difficult to manage your feelings when getting feedback that feels too harsh, overly nice, or somehow dishonest. We all struggle with feedback, so extend a little grace to yourself for having strong emotions, and to the other person for initiating a difficult conversation. The authors present the three most common ways people deliver feedback in a way that causes harm and elicits strong emotions, as well as five key steps to take when you get poorly delivered feedback.
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Feedback Essentials Course
Accelerate your career with Harvard ManageMentor®. HBR Learning’s online leadership training helps you hone your skills with courses like Feedback Essentials. Earn badges to share on LinkedIn and your resume. Access more than 40 courses trusted by Fortune 500 companies.
Give feedback that your employees can hear and use.
Learn More & See All Courses
New!
HBR Learning
HBR Learning
Feedback Essentials Course
Accelerate your career with Harvard ManageMentor®. HBR Learning’s online leadership training helps you hone your skills with courses like Feedback Essentials. Earn badges to share on LinkedIn and your resume. Access more than 40 courses trusted by Fortune 500 companies.
Give feedback that your employees can hear and use.