What do you do if your job search partner or accountability buddy needs feedback?

1 Honest Compassion

When the time comes to give feedback, approach the conversation with empathy and understanding. Recognize that job searching can be a sensitive topic and that your partner may be feeling vulnerable. Start by affirming their efforts and strengths before moving on to areas that could use improvement. Make sure your feedback is specific and actionable, rather than vague or overly critical. For instance, if their resume isn't garnering attention, suggest concrete ways to tailor it to specific job descriptions or to highlight their most relevant experience.

2 Balanced Approach

Striking a balance between encouragement and constructive criticism is key. While it's important to point out areas that need improvement, it's equally important to acknowledge what your partner is doing well. This not only boosts their confidence but also makes them more receptive to your suggestions. For example, you might commend their networking efforts while advising them on how to craft more engaging introductory emails to potential contacts.

4 Specific Examples

When providing feedback, use specific examples to illustrate your points. This helps your partner understand exactly what they can improve upon and how. If you're discussing interview techniques, for example, you might recall a particular instance where they struggled with a common interview question and offer advice on how to better prepare for such questions in the future.

6 Follow-Up Support

Finally, offer ongoing support after providing feedback. This could involve setting up regular check-ins to discuss progress or offering to help with specific tasks, such as practicing interview questions or revising their LinkedIn profile. Your continued involvement shows that you are committed to helping your partner succeed and that you're willing to invest time in their job search journey.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?