What do you do if negative feedback in a startup job makes you defensive?

2 Listen Fully

The key to benefiting from negative feedback is to listen actively and fully understand the points being made. Resist the urge to interrupt or prepare your defense while the other person is speaking. Instead, focus on the content of the feedback and try to see it from the giver's perspective. This can help you identify areas for improvement that you might have overlooked and demonstrates respect for the other person's input—something that's essential in a collaborative startup environment.

3 Reflect Honestly

After receiving negative feedback, take time to reflect on it honestly. Consider the validity of the points made and how they align with your self-perception and performance goals. Self-reflection can be challenging, but it's a crucial step in personal development, particularly in a startup where roles evolve rapidly. Use this as an opportunity to set new objectives for yourself and to develop strategies for improvement that can contribute positively to your team and the startup as a whole.

4 Seek Clarification

If aspects of the feedback are unclear or seem unfounded, don't hesitate to seek clarification. Asking for specific examples or further explanation demonstrates your commitment to understanding and addressing the issues raised. This proactive approach not only helps you improve but also fosters open communication within your startup team. Clear understanding is the foundation for effective action, so make sure you have all the information you need to move forward.

5 Plan Action

Turn negative feedback into a catalyst for growth by creating an action plan. Identify the steps you can take to address the issues raised and set realistic, measurable goals. This shows that you're not just receptive to feedback but also proactive in using it to enhance your performance. In a startup, where agility and adaptability are key, your ability to respond positively to criticism can make a significant impact on your success and the company's progress.

6 Follow Up

Lastly, following up after implementing changes based on negative feedback is crucial. It demonstrates your commitment to continuous improvement and accountability. Share your progress with the person who provided the feedback and seek their input on your improvements. This not only helps solidify the changes you've made but also strengthens relationships within your startup team by showing that you value and act upon their feedback.

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?