How To Accept Positive Feedback In The Workplace

by Abhishek Jun 27,2016
Engagedly

This is the fourth and final article in the Feedback article series. Previously, we focused on how to give negative feedback, how to accept negative feedback and the SBI model of feedback. This week, we look at how to accept positive feedback in the workplace.

Accepting positive feedback seems like an easy task. You can say ‘Thank You’ and then move on. Or, you can also use it as an opportunity to turn it into something useful.

Most positive feedback tends to be vague and not always helpful. This is not to say that a ‘Good job!’ or ‘Great work’ are not appreciated, but sometimes you might want more than just two words of appreciation. You might want to know what exactly you did right or know in what way you made an impact. If you are the kind of person who wants more than a ‘Good job’, then here is how you can turn feedback into something that is meaningful for you.

1. Acknowledge it.

If your manager praises you, accept it as gracefully as you can and say thank you. The very act of appreciating feedback might open up the lines of communication. Remember, it is always easier to talk to someone who is interested in what you have to say.

2. Ask questions.

Your manager says you’ve done good work and have met all your objectives. You can always ask him, “Hey Tim, where else do you think I can improve?” or something like, “Thank you, Tim. I’m glad you think so. I’ve got a few questions for you regarding my goals for this year. Do you have a few minutes to chat?” By communicating yourself, you can help your manager expand on the feedback he/she has given you.

3. Ask about what did not work.

When you are receiving positive feedback, you can also ask for instance where you did not do well or where you could have done better. There is always something we can do better or improve upon.


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Abhishek

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