What is a difficult piece of feedback that you have received? When did you receive it and how did you handle it?

Question Analysis

This behavioral interview question aims to evaluate your ability to receive and respond to constructive criticism. The interviewer is interested in understanding how you handle difficult feedback, your emotional intelligence, and your capacity for self-improvement. The question requires you to provide a specific example, describe the situation, the nature of the feedback, and the steps you took to address it. Using the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) method will help structure your response effectively.

Answer

Situation: At my previous job as a project manager, I received feedback from my supervisor during a mid-year performance review. The feedback was about my communication style, which was considered too direct and sometimes perceived as abrupt by team members.

Task: My task was to improve my communication skills to ensure that my team felt more comfortable and supported, which would ultimately enhance our collaboration and productivity.

Action: I took several steps to address this feedback. I enrolled in a communication skills workshop to learn about different communication styles and techniques. Additionally, I started scheduling regular one-on-one meetings with each team member to understand their perspectives better and to receive ongoing feedback about my communication approach. I also sought mentorship from a colleague known for their excellent interpersonal skills.

Result: Over time, I noticed a significant improvement in my relationships with team members. The feedback from my team became more positive, indicating that they felt more valued and understood. This change not only enhanced team morale but also improved project outcomes, as team members were more engaged and collaborative. My supervisor acknowledged my growth in this area during my subsequent performance review.