Feedback is great. "Reflection on the past leads to action in the future." But remember: feedback is just data. Whether it's positive or negative, it's only one data point. I'll happily listen to anyone that wants to give me feedback but I get to choose what I accept or want to work. In addition to getting feedback from your superior, try also seeking feedback from other people who saw the presentation, get a sense of how others feel about what you did. Oh, and don't forget to give yourself some feedback.

When I first faced critical comments, I took a step back to listen objectively. According to Harvard Business Review, embracing constructive criticism can accelerate your professional development by 30%. I focused on the specific areas highlighted, whether it was refining my delivery or enhancing my content structure. Seeking clarity and asking for actionable advice turned the critique into a roadmap for improvement. Additionally, I celebrated the courage it took to receive feedback, maintaining a positive mindset. Remember, every piece of feedback is a stepping stone to becoming a more impactful speaker. Embrace the insights, adapt, and watch your skills soar!

Navigating critical feedback isn’t just about receiving it—it's about viewing it as a tool for refinement. Instead of focusing on the emotional sting, think of feedback as sharpening a blade. The friction may be uncomfortable, but it’s necessary for growth. After a presentation, I approach feedback with curiosity rather than defensiveness, asking questions like, ‘What specific areas stood out to you?’ or ‘How can I elevate this for next time?’ That way, every critique becomes a stepping stone to mastery, not a roadblock.

This can be hard. There's an objective and subjective part of feedback. Always start with the objective. Did I... - have a clear message? - provide context? restate the problem? - show the audience why this was important? - deliver it well? (pacing, tone, interaction, open to questions) - transition well between sections? - were my slides clear & match the message? - open and close well. Then go to the subjective: - did I match my presentation to the audience's personal wiring? - is my manager sharing subjective feedback based on their wiring? Now, none of this means we should be defensive on the feedback, so listen with open ears, mind and heart. At the end of the day, delineate between objective & subjective feedback.

After finishing my public speaking performance, I approach critical feedback from my superior with an open mind and a positive attitude. I actively listen, taking notes to capture key points, and resist the urge to defend myself immediately. I ask clarifying questions to better understand their perspective and to show that I value their insights. Once the feedback is fully articulated, I reflect on it and identify actionable steps for improvement, viewing it as an opportunity for growth rather than criticism. This approach not only enhances my skills but also demonstrates my commitment to continuous improvement.