Receiving feedback at work can be tough—it’s natural to feel uncomfortable when you’re told you’re not doing something well. That doesn’t make you ‘arrogant ‘ or ‘ too defensive and won’t take feedback’—it means you obviously care about how you’re doing at work, and that’s a good thing. But what happens when the feedback isn’t clear, kind, or even fair? How do you handle feedback that feels baseless or poorly delivered? In this episode, we’re tackling how to navigate your emotional reactions, respond with resilience, and stay focused on your growth—even when the feedback you get is less than helpful.

1. 
   
2. 
   

   Pause Before Reacting – When faced with feedback that seems unfair, resist the urge to react immediately. Acting with composure allows you to gather your thoughts and prepare for a more productive follow-up conversation.

   
   
   
3. 
   

   Assume Good Intentions – Even if the feedback is poorly delivered or unjustified, starting with the assumption that the giver has good intentions can help frame your response in a constructive manner.

   
   
   
4. 
   

   Seek Clarity and Understanding – Ask clarifying questions to fully grasp the concerns behind the feedback. Exploring the giver’s assumptions, asking for examples, and finding any valid points within the criticism can help you respond thoughtfully.

   
   
   
5. 
   

   Follow Up and Address the Feedback – In a later meeting, recap what you understood from the feedback and outline any actions you plan to take (if necessary). If the feedback is genuinely unfounded, stay professional and avoid unnecessary conflict.

   
   
   
6. 
   

   Maintain Confidence and Perspective – If, after evaluation, the feedback turns out to be baseless or misguided, don’t let it shake your confidence. Learn from valid insights but also recognize when criticism is more about the giver’s perspective than your actual performance.

   
   
   

Connect with Jack Zenger

• 
  
• LinkedIn
  

When Your Boss Gives Bad Feedback, Badly- HBR Article 

Webinar

Zenger Folkman hosts an exclusive live webinar every month, where you can meet Jack Zenger and Joe Folkman and talk about their latest leadership development research. Find out more information and register here.

The post Episode 156: What To Do When The Boss Gives You Baseless Feedback first appeared on ZENGER FOLKMAN.