"When I receive unsolicited feedback, I will take a step back and assess whether I believe the person had my best interest in mind. If I determine they intend to help me, I will approach them and ask for them to elaborate and perhaps suggest a way for me to implement change. If they are only trying to hinder my performance, I go about my day."

"I have very thick skin, so if I receive unsolicited feedback, I can take it with a grain of salt. Customers will complain about our set pricing, the color of our packaging - anything you could think of. If my boss recommends that I have a better organizational system, I will take that to heart and take a good hard look at my organizational methodology. I am always open to change and workplace improvements."

It's easy to feel defensive when you receive unsolicited advice, in part because it can feel like the other person doesn't trust you to handle things themselves. Receiving feedback well doesn't mean you have to implement it. Yet, portraying you are seeking growth opportunities conveys emotional intelligence. Being good at receiving feedback means you receive it, hear it, and work to understand it. Talk about how you appreciate unsolicited feedback because it helps you learn, grow, and consider another perspective.

"I think it is important to listen carefully to all feedback, especially when it isn't constructive. If you are adept at communicating non-defensively, you should be equally adept at nondefensive listening. Every bit of feedback anyone gives is a growth opportunity. I want to fast-track my career to the best of my ability. So whatever the feedback, I'll be grateful for it."