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Q&A: Gen Y Seeking Feedback
Hi there,
I started working about a year ago and in the last 3 months even though I’ve been working about 14 hour days, now I feel quality of my work is suffering. I understand I need a break. I have not faced any failures but it seems to give me a constant feeling that I am not doing good. It’s crazy with the shrinking resources, but fortunate to have a temp work for me. He’s from the same school I went to. My boss hired him per my recommendation.
I feel the need for a feedback. I also want to sit down and explain areas where I think I have failed and work on my weaknesses. There seems to be no clarity on what projects am I going to handle next.
How can I ask my manager where she’s going to put me next, as I perform well when I know what expecations are?
Nick
Hi Nick—
First, you’re not alone. Many new employees, members of Gen Y, are hungry for more feedback.
The problem is that “feedback” for many older employees tends to be associated with an unpleasant experience—it often implies a judgement, an assessment, a criticism. And many tend to do it as infrequently as possible.
You’re looking for something quite different—guidance, clarity, advice on how to be more effective.
My basic advice is that you make your request as clearly as possible. Don’t use the word “feedback.” Ask your boss to spend some time coaching you or sharing some tips with you about how you can be more effective. Don’t approach the conversation with the thought that you need to explain areas where you feel you’ve failed. Instead, ask your boss for some tips on how you could have done those things better. Keep it positive and learning oriented.
Good luck!
Warmly,
Tammy
Filed under: Interactions with Your Manager | Published: 01/15/11
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