Let’s face it: nobody likes criticism, and it can especially sting in the caregiving field where you pour your heart and soul into your work, each and every day. But what if I told you that negative feedback, when handled correctly, can actually be a powerful tool for growth and improvement?
In this article, we’ll outline some strategies that can help you take negative feedback in your stride, and use it to enhance your skills and become an even more exceptional care professional.
Understanding feedback
Not all feedback is created equal. Some feedback is constructive, offering specific points for improvement, while other feedback might be less helpful, stemming from personal biases or misunderstandings.
That’s why it’s crucial to take a step back and understand the nature of the feedback you’ve received before acting on it. Ask yourself:
- Is the feedback specific and actionable? Or vague and unhelpful?
- Is the feedback based on or aligned with established best practices in caregiving?
- Is this feedback coming from a place of genuine concern for your development, or is it motivated by other factors?
By objectively analysing all the feedback you receive in this way, you can better understand its value and work out the next steps.
Navigating negative feedback: Five strategies to use
1. Listen actively
While your first thought might be to react, resist the urge to interrupt or become defensive. Instead, practice active listening. Here’s how to do that:
- Pay close attention to what is being said, nodding and making eye contact to show you’re listening
- Ask clarifying questions to ensure you understand fully what’s being said – you can repeat back what you’ve heard to double check your understanding.
2. Stay calm
It’s totally natural to feel a surge of emotions when receiving criticism. You might feel hurt, or even angry. Acknowledge these feelings, but don’t let them hijack your response. Take a breath and process the information you’ve received before responding. Remember, you can always step away and take some time to reflect before discussing it further.
Even if you feel the feedback you’ve received is unfair or inaccurate, respond with respect and professionalism. Avoid becoming defensive or confrontational.
3. Ask for clarity and examples
It can be helpful to ask for specific examples to help you get a clearer picture of the areas where you need to improve. You can also ask for suggestions on how you might handle things better in the future.
4. Focus on solutions
Try your best not to dwell on the negative aspects of the feedback you’ve received, instead focusing on solutions and next steps. Create an action plan that outlines your goal and what you need to do next to meet them.
5. Speak to others
You don’t have to navigate negative feedback alone. Talk to trusted teammates, supervisors or mentors about the feedback you receive. They can offer valuable support and encouragement, and might even be able to help you gain a new perspective.
What to do about repeated negative feedback
Sometimes, you might find yourself receiving similar negative feedback repeatedly. This can be frustrating, especially if you’ve taken steps to try to address it previously. Here’s what to do:
- Identify a pattern
Analyse the feedback you’ve received to pinpoint the recurring theme. Is it related to communication, time management or a specific clinical skill for example?
- Ask for help
Don’t hesitate to ask your supervisor, mentor or teammate for guidance. They can offer objective perspectives and help you identify blind spots.
- Create a targeted plan
Work with your supervisor or mentor to create a focused plan that addresses the specific areas where you need to improve.
- Monitor your progress
Regularly check in with your progress, celebrating successes and acknowledging areas where you still need to grow.
Focusing on the positive: How to reframe negative feedback
Feedback, both positive and negative, is a powerful tool for growth. Welcome all types of feedback as an opportunity for development, and not something to shy away from or get upset about.
Here’s how to reframe negative feedback:
- Focus on the positive: Identify the specific points of the feedback that you can use to improve your practice.
- Challenge negative thoughts: If you find yourself dwelling on negative self-talk, challenge those thoughts and replace them with positive affirmations that focus on your strengths.
- Embrace a growth mindset: See challenges as opportunities to learn. Believe in yourself and your ability to develop and improve through dedication and hard work.
Reframing negative feedback: Three examples
What they said: “Your communication with families can be dismissive.”
How to reframe it: “There’s an opportunity to enhance my communication skills with families and ensure they feel heard and supported.”
What they said: “Your patient notes are disorganised.”
How to reframe it: “I can explore strategies to improve my note-taking efficiency and organisation, ultimately making the lives of my colleagues and myself much easier.”
What they said: “You lack empathy in some situations.”
How to reframe it: “I can build better connections with my patients by developing my empathetic responses.”
Navigating negative feedback can be challenging, but by embracing feedback as a tool for growth, you can enhance your skills, build resilience and provide even better care. Remember, your dedication and compassion are invaluable, and with each challenge, you have the opportunity to become an even more exceptional care professional.
Read next: How to ask for and act on feedback in your social care role →
