What do you do if your healthcare feedback isn't helping your professional growth?

1 Identify the source of the problem

Sometimes, the feedback you receive may not be helpful due to its delivery, context, or expectations. For instance, feedback that is too general, negative, or personal may not be informative or motivating. Feedback that is given at the wrong time, in the wrong setting, or by the wrong person may not be appropriate or respectful. Additionally, feedback that is unrealistic, inconsistent, or contradictory may not be aligned with your goals or standards. To identify the source of the problem, consider what is the purpose and intention of the feedback; how clear and specific it is; how timely and relevant it is; how respectful and supportive it is; and how realistic and consistent it is.

2 Communicate your needs and preferences

If you find that the feedback you receive is not helping your professional growth, you can communicate your needs and preferences to the feedback giver. Express your appreciation for their input, but explain what kind of feedback you are looking for and how to receive it. Ask for feedback that is based on observable behaviors and outcomes, not personal traits or opinions. Request a balanced approach with positive and negative aspects, not only focusing on weaknesses or mistakes. Make sure the feedback is actionable and specific, not vague or general. Additionally, ask for timely and frequent feedback, not delayed or sporadic. Be sure to request private and constructive feedback, not public or critical comments. Finally, make sure the feedback is aligned with your goals and expectations, not with their own agenda or preferences.

3 Seek feedback from multiple sources

If feedback isn't helping your professional growth, you can seek feedback from multiple sources. Ask peers for insights and best practices, supervisors to evaluate your performance and provide guidance and support, clients or patients for feedback on service and satisfaction, mentors or coaches for advice and inspiration, and reflect on your own strengths and areas for improvement. Different people with different perspectives, roles, and experiences in the healthcare field can offer valuable feedback that can help you grow professionally.

4 Use feedback as a learning opportunity

Finally, you can use feedback as a learning opportunity, regardless of how helpful it is. You can analyze the feedback you receive, and decide what to do with it. You can accept the feedback that is valid and useful, and reject the feedback that is irrelevant or harmful. You can also ask for clarification, examples, or suggestions if the feedback is unclear or incomplete. You can then use the feedback to create a plan of action , and implement the changes that will help you grow. You can also monitor your progress, and seek feedback again to evaluate your improvement.

Feedback is a valuable tool for your professional growth in the healthcare field, but it can also be challenging and frustrating. By following these tips, you can handle feedback that isn't helping your professional growth, and seek feedback that is more constructive and relevant.

5 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?