Reframe feedback for growth
- Philip Brophy
- Mar 27
- 3 min read
Rise above negative feedback • 3 min read
Research carried out by the Centre for Excellence in Teaching and Learning at Seattle University, showed that 65% of workers said they wanted more feedback.
The study revealed that employees need to feel like they're constantly making progress — otherwise, they begin to feel invisible.
The research, therefore, concluded that feedback is one of the key motivators in the workplace, suggesting the importance of actively seeking it out, even when it’s not given.
Introduction
Criticism can be a minefield — we often despise hearing it, especially when it’s not even half-way accurate or fair.
However, while this may be the case, if we respond accordingly by building upon contested weaker areas and past mistakes, we can only move forward.
This week, we’ll look at how by reframing criticism and spinning it to our advantage, it can be vital for both our development and growth in the workplace.
Reframing feedback
Criticism can be harsh. It can be unfair. But remember, as fantastically wonderful as we are, there’s always room for improvement.
This is why it’s essential to openly and calmly accept criticism, reframing it as constructive feedback, while extracting suggestions from otherwise critical words. And there are a few ways we can go about getting it in clever ways to maximise on its potential.
Reframing the feedback as data
It’s easy to take criticism personally, but when we rationally frame it, we can view it as gaining data — thus, improving our performance, while altering our interpretation.
Think about it like this — it’s logical that the person giving us feedback would know our strengths, at least to some degree. So why not see it as them giving us the tools to identify and overcome your weaknesses?
It's up to us to transform feedback into a positive. This will motivate us to keep working hard to progress.
All in the interpretation
Instead of over-speculation over a comment, e.g., Luke says your project wasn’t the one chosen to be presented, to which you react with the thought, ”That’s it, I’m a failure!”
Ask yourself “What does this comment say about me?”
Is this a reaction proportionate to the comment?
More often than not, it’s not personal. Your presentation may just not have been the right fit for this project, THIS TIME.
Key takeaways
No one likes to hear criticism. However, research has shown that it’s a key motivator for growth and development in the workplace.
When we reframe the criticism as constructive feedback, by openly and calmly accepting and extracting essential data from the perceived critical wording, we can maximise the opportunity to learn and grow.
Avoid over-speculation by trying to focus on whether your initial reaction (in your mind) is proportionate to the feedback given. This is why it’s important to pause and reflect before responding.
Think big, act small
Can you use constructive criticism to your advantage?
Next time your manager doles out feedback that isn’t all too positive, why not take the opportunity to reframe it?
Try reframing the scenario as one of growth, where your boss is giving you the tools to identify and overcome your weaknesses, to build upon these areas for better growth and development.
Content sources
Forbes, 2019, Andy Molinsky, ‘Five Essential Tips for Handling Constructive Criticism’
Harvard Business Review, 2015, Carolyn O’Hara, ‘How to Get the Feedback You Need’
Harvard Business Review, 2018, Tasha Eurich, ‘The Right Way to Respond to Negative Feedback’
Muse, The, 2012, ‘Taking Constructive Criticism Like a Champ’
Psychology Today, 2014, Lissa Rankin, ‘10 Tips for Receiving Criticism with Grace’
Psychology Today, 2021, Ellen Hendriksen, ‘How to Take Criticism Gracefully’
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