How do you respond to feedback?
Receiving feedback from anyone can be tough, especially from those you aim to please. Just as you can't always predict what they may say, you likewise can't always predict how you feel in response. This is the heart of the question. An ideal candidate will actively listen to the feedback received, consider it, and provide a different perspective, clarification, or affirmation and appreciation for the feedback. This approach exhibits a wide variety of soft skills that could set you up as a desirable asset. Those who feel hurt, victimized, persecuted, disappointed, defensive, or angry are less desirable in the workplace and could negatively impact their team's operations, attitude, morale, and productivity. Learning how to respond when given a performance review or general performance feedback is an essential skill.
"Even though it can be difficult to hear criticism, I always pause before I respond and take time to think about it first. If it catches me by surprise, I usually ask for clarification. I want to grow and improve. The more specific my supervisor can be in their feedback, the more helpful it is."
"I have worked hard on learning to graciously accept all forms of feedback, even when it comes unsolicited. I feel that I can accept feedback very well, and in the process of growing, I have also taught myself how to give great feedback to my team."
Community answers are written by other candidates practicing this set. Reading how others frame the same question is one of the fastest ways to sharpen your own.
Anonymous Answer
Feedback is important for learning and growth and I do my best to accept it and use that feedback to improve my performance. I like to believe that in most cases feedback is related to business and unless boundaries are violated to not take things personally. This has allowed me to thrive off of constructive criticism and grow throughout my career.
Marcie's Feedback
Excellent. The interviewer will want to hear that you take feedback constructively and use it to learn and grow, and this is exactly what you have stated. It's also positive that you mention not taking things personally. Great answer! If you can think of an example to include where you received feedback and used it to make positive changes, don't hesitate to include this as well.
