When feedback isn’t feedback at all

Ever been told ‘this needs to be stronger’ - but no one tells you what that means?

To really step up in your career, you need to know what you're working with. But too often, feedback from senior leaders, stakeholders, or colleagues is too vague to act on - and when that happens, it’s easy for the blame to shift onto you for “not getting it” when the real issue is unclear communication.

Have you heard these before?

• This needs to be more polished. → Polished how? Visually? Structurally? Tone?
• We need this to be stronger.→ Stronger in what way? More data? A bolder stance??
• This doesn't feel right. → Feels right… compared to what?
• We need this to feel more innovative. → More innovative in design? Strategy? Execution?
• Let’s take a slightly different direction. → Are we pivoting or just tweaking? What’s actually off?

These comments aren’t feedback. They’re often placeholders for unspoken preferences. And unless you know how to navigate them, you could waste time trying to fix something without actually knowing what’s “wrong.”

How to decode vague feedback

• Clarify expectations immediately.?When someone gives you vague feedback, don’t assume. Ask: Can you give me an example of what ‘polished’ looks like to you? What’s one thing that would make this ‘stronger’ in your view? What’s an example of something similar that meets your expectations?

? Why it works: It forces the person giving feedback to articulate what they actually mean.

• Uncover unclear priorities.?Sometimes, the feedback itself isn’t the issue - the priorities behind it are vague. Follow up with: If we have to prioritize one thing, what matters most? Is this about improving readability, persuasiveness, or visual appeal? Are we optimizing for stakeholder buy-in, customer experience, or efficiency?

? Why it works: It helps identify whether the issue is execution or a shifting goalpost.

• Turn subjective feedback into specifics.?When someone says something is "off" but can’t articulate why, help them get there: Can you describe what feels off - tone, visuals, structure, or something else? Is there something specific that isn’t landing the way you expected? If we were to nail this, what would success look like to you?

? Why it works: It shifts the conversation from feelings to actionable input.

You can’t read minds - so don’t try.

Unclear feedback isn’t a you problem. Knowing how to ask the right questions is what separates professionals who struggle with revisions from those who take control of the process.

Own it. Authentically.?

Marlene?

Creator of Own Your Impact

*P.S. What’s the most frustrating piece of unclear feedback you’ve ever received? Hit reply! I’d love to hear more examples!

About Me:??? Hi, I’m Marlene. I’m a Digital Brand Communications Leader & Coach helping brands and people create connections that matter. With over fifteen years of experience leading global teams, developing innovative strategies, and mentoring professionals, I’m passionate about empowering others to own their achievements authentically. As the creator of Own Your Impact and several development toolkits, my goal is to help you confidently share your success stories and inspire others - all while staying true to yourself. Let’s grow, achieve, and lead together.