How to send work for review without sounding insecure

Short answer: say “Here's the draft. Can you focus on section 2?”

DON'T SAY
“I hope this is okay…”
SAY THIS
“Here's the draft. Can you focus on section 2?”
It points feedback where it matters and signals confidence in the rest.

When to use it

Use it when you share a draft and want useful feedback. Pointing the reviewer to the section you're least sure about gets you better comments faster, and it implies you're comfortable with the rest. Pick the part that actually needs a second opinion.

Example

You: “Here's the draft. Can you focus on section 2? That's where I made the pricing assumptions.”

Manager: “Will do. I'll look tonight.”

In an email or Slack message

In the email: “Draft attached. Can you focus on section 2 (pricing assumptions)? The rest is ready unless you spot something.” A clear ask makes it easy to reply.

Quick drill

At the end of a 1:1 or after a goals conversation.

Which sounds more confident?

Practice 10 more →

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