How to ask for feedback
Feedback does not necessarily have to be formal or requested, it can be spontaneous. For example, it could be a judge commenting on the quality of a report or statement, a comment from a colleague, another professional or someone you have supported.
How to ask for feedback
Last updated: 28 August 2020
Feedback does not necessarily have to be formal or requested, it can be spontaneous. For example, it could be a judge commenting on the quality of a report or statement, a comment from a colleague, another professional or someone you have supported.
Requesting formal feedback
If your organisation actively requests formal feedback, this can be included in your CPD record. Alternatively, if you want to request and include formal feedback, you could consider the following:
Outline what you want the feedback to achieve
In most cases, the aim is to obtain a clear and accurate picture of what is being done well, what could be improved and suggestions to get there.
Identify who to approach for feedback
The best constructive comments can be provided by those who have the most interaction with you on a daily basis. Feedback from a variety of people, for example managers, colleagues, people you support will provide a holistic and insightful perspective.
Prepare some questions
Think about specific questions to ask that would inform what you’re doing well and what could be improved. Open ended questions encourage more detailed feedback and help you better understand the context of the person’s feedback. For example:
- What have I done well? Why do you think this?
- What single area do I need to improve on over the next 6 months? Why do you think it's important for me to focus on this?
- What can I do better in the future?
Prepare to receive the feedback
You must be willing to accept the answers with an open mind and a positive, accepting attitude. Feedback does not always need to be face to face. More honest feedback can sometimes be received when people aren’t directly confronted in a conversation. To obtain comprehensive feedback, ask open ended questions and focus on what you can do better in the future.
Reflect and follow up on feedback
This is a key element of recording your CPD. Make the changes you need to develop your practice and regularly review the progress you make to continue your professional development.