How to Evaluate Feedback
Opinions are everywhere, but how do you cut through the clutter to determine which feedback is valuable and helpful?
- Be clear about what is being evaluated.
Before determining how to evaluate feedback, consider what you are evaluating. For example, if you are reviewing feedback on your sales techniques, think about what you need to do to be an effective salesperson.
- Consider that the feedback is being given to help you with your job/situation.
Often people become defensive when given feedback. Before reviewing the feedback, remember that the information is being given to assist you with your job or situation, and ready yourself to take a more pragmatic approach to what is being delivered.
- Review each feedback point and ask questions.
If the evaluator is available, ask him or her to expand on the feedback. Ask for real-life examples or situations where feedback was warranted. Also, ask how the evaluator would have done the job or handled the situation differently.
Consider each point and mentally recall how the feedback can be applied to the situation. If the evaluator isn't there, find out if you can submit any written questions to him or her for additional information.
- Act on the feedback.
If the feedback is coming from a credible source (e.g., boss or valued coworker), write down how you would like to apply the feedback to future situations and keep your list at your desk.
Try to put yourself in situations where you can apply the feedback to determine whether it is effective and how your new actions impact the outcome.
Thank your evaluator.
Because the feedback is intended to help you, remember to thank the person who gave those helpful tips. This will increase the evaluator's respect for you and encourage ongoing open communication.
Tip
Determine what is being evaluated. Consider the source and who is doing the evaluation. Don't take the comments personally but rather use them to help you in the future. Learn from the evaluation: Ask your evaulator questions and act on the responses.