How to ask for feedback at work

Short answer: say “What's one thing I could do differently in my next presentation?”

DON'T SAY
“Any feedback?”
SAY THIS
“What's one thing I could do differently in my next presentation?”
A specific question gets a specific, usable answer.

When to use it

Use it after a presentation, project or meeting where you'd like to improve. A specific question gets a specific answer. “Any feedback?” usually gets “Looked good!” which doesn't help you grow.

Example

You: “What's one thing I could do differently in my next presentation?”

Manager: “Slow down on the numbers slide. That's where people needed more time.”

In an email or Slack message

By message: “Thanks for coming to the review. What's one thing I could do differently next time?” Asking for one thing makes it easy to answer.

Quick drill

When feedback catches you off guard and your first instinct is to explain yourself.

Which sounds more confident?

Practice 10 more →

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25 phrases that make you sound confident at work

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