Feedback in a work situation happens when other people share with you their observations and experience of working with you. Very few of us actively seek feedback in work and many people are reluctant to take on board feedback and learn from it.

Many of us are given feedback during performance evaluation discussions with our boss. This once-a-year event is the only feedback that many people receive. If you wish to advance and develop at work, it is useful to know what needs attention and improvement. You can find out about this by actively seeking feedback from colleagues and clients.

Immediate feedback

The best feedback is the instant kind where it is given as soon as you have performed a specific task. The task may be a presentation or a meeting that you have chaired. Afterwards, seek observations from colleagues.

Stay positive

There is a danger that feedback can get overly negative and critical. It should have balance, positive feedback and constructive criticism as these are most helpful.

Forward planning

Feedback by its nature looks at past actions. What about actions taken in the future? You could seek suggestions for how you can be successful in the future. In such a scenario, you are mindful of areas in which you wish to improve. You have to be courageous to ask about a skill or behaviour that you know needs attention.

Shared learning

You will be surprised how helpful work colleagues will be when you share your request for feedback with them. For example, you explain that you want to be a more effective communicator. When you ask for suggestions on how you might develop this skill, you will hear plenty of suggestions. Why? This is because there is group learning for all concerned.

Gratitude

Constructive feedback is not easy to give because those giving it may have limited experience of providing it. Recognise the effort of those asked by thanking them.

Seeking feedback is wise. Without it, you risk making the same mistakes over and over. Without feedback, you will never develop skills that keep you relevant and attractive for promotional opportunities. Seek feedback from colleagues at work whenever possible.