Giving and receiving feedback isn’t always easy. However, it’s an essential part of professional growth and ongoing development. When delivered thoughtfully, feedback can motivate, clarify expectations and help strengthen workplace relationships.
At the same time, care should be taken to ensure feedback is given in the right way — one that promotes improvement rather than discouragement. Understanding how to communicate feedback effectively, and how to accept it with an open mind, can make a significant difference to your career success.
So, why is feedback important — and how can you give and receive it well?
Why Feedback Is Important
Helps facilitate growth
Feedback can provide you with a new perspective on how your actions affect those around you. It allows you to learn from experience and identify ways to improve your performance.
Improves workplace relationships
Giving and receiving feedback can help to build trust among colleagues. Open communication strengthens collaboration and encourages mutual respect.
Improves skills and performance
Receiving regular feedback provides insight into your strengths and weaknesses at work. This helps you focus on professional development and continuous improvement.
Helps achieve workplace goals
Regular feedback ensures all team members are working towards shared objectives. It creates alignment and accountability across the organisation.
Develops positive culture
Feedback is essential for creating a positive workplace culture of learning and growth. When feedback is normalised, people feel safe to share ideas and try new approaches.
How to Give Feedback in the Workplace
Know why you are giving it
Thinking about why you’re giving feedback helps keep your message constructive and focused. Are you trying to help someone improve, clarify expectations, or recognise good performance? Being clear about your purpose makes it easier to deliver feedback in a positive and helpful way.
Focus on action, not the person
Feedback should focus on what someone did, not who they are. Address specific behaviours or results rather than personal traits. For example, say “Your report could include more detail on outcomes” rather than “You’re not thorough enough.”
Focus on how you have been affected
When giving feedback, use “I” statements to describe your experience instead of speaking for others. For example, “I found it difficult to meet the deadline when the data wasn’t ready” is more constructive than “Everyone was frustrated with you.”
Be specific
Vague feedback doesn’t help anyone improve. Point to a clear example and explain what worked well or what could be done differently next time. The clearer your feedback, the easier it is for the other person to act on it.
Be timely
Feedback is most effective when it’s given soon after the event. Waiting too long can cause details to be forgotten and lessen the impact. Timely feedback also shows that you value open communication and continuous improvement.
How to Receive Feedback
Ask for it often
Proactively seeking feedback demonstrates initiative and a willingness to learn. Asking for regular input from managers or colleagues helps you identify areas for growth before they become issues.
Be receptive to constructive feedback
Try to listen with an open mind, even when the message is uncomfortable. Constructive feedback is meant to help you develop, not to criticise. Stay calm, thank the person for their honesty, and reflect before responding.
Look at it as a growth opportunity
Feedback can be a powerful learning tool when viewed positively. Rather than taking it personally, see it as a chance to refine your skills, gain new insights and progress in your career.
Take time to process
It’s normal to feel defensive or surprised when receiving feedback. Give yourself time to think it over, especially if it was unexpected. Reflecting before reacting ensures your response is thoughtful and professional.
Own your mistake
If feedback highlights an error, acknowledge it and take responsibility. Owning your mistake shows maturity, accountability and integrity — qualities that build trust and respect in the workplace.
Receiving and applying feedback is one of the most effective ways to build confidence and take control of your professional growth. Whether you’re looking to step into a leadership role, change industries or strengthen your workplace relationships, learning from feedback can help you identify your strengths and areas for improvement — setting you up for long-term career success.
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Article References
Indeed (26 July 2025) ‘Giving and Receiving Feedback: Definition and Examples’, Indeed, accessed 3 November 2025.
Seek (29 February 2024) ‘Constructive criticism: How to give and receive feedback’, Seek, accessed 3 November 2025.