Receiving feedback

As a new employee, feedback is an important part of your growth and development at Mayo Clinic. Here are a few key points to keep in mind when receiving feedback from others.

• Listen carefully to the other’s perceptions and ideas.
• Be honest with yourself– try not to get defensive.
• Paraphrase what you hear to verify your perception (e.g., “I hear you saying I should…”)
• Ask for examples in those areas that are unclear or in which a difference of opinion exists (e.g. “Can you please provide me an example of how to…”)
• Thank the individual for sharing his/her feedback.
• Carefully evaluate the feedback received. (It is okay to ask for time to think through what you were just told.)
• If you agree with the feedback, identify actions that you can take to change your behavior.
• Collaborate to reach a solution that meets both of your needs.

Reminders

• Trust that feedback is given with sincere intentions.
• Avoid rationalizing why the feedback was provided.
• If you are not getting enough feedback, ask for it.