Employee Gives New Boss Real "Constructive" Feedback About Her Work, Gets Accused Of Bullying By Coworkers

We're all individuals, and organizations are made up of people. Despite the fact that we all make mistakes, we can all improve.

The ability to live with more purpose, clarity, and passion should be available to all people anywhere in the world. However, until your team feels comfortable providing input, we won't be able to maximize everyone's potential.

For many, giving constructive criticism is nerve-wracking. However, receiving feedback is equally essential for success at work.

It enables individuals to adapt and develop new skills and abilities. It fosters stronger, more fruitful bonds between coworkers.

Not only does it aid in achieving objectives and generating corporate value, but communication involves both parties. Feedback discussions are sometimes fraught with fear because they are often perceived as unfavorable criticism.

Sadly, feedback has a reputation for being either good or bad. However, there are actually many different ways to use feedback in interpersonal and professional interactions.

Not all of them fit neatly into one category or another. Every kind of criticism has the potential to improve a person, a group, or a workplace environment.

Some employee feedback may be easier to provide than others, but the OP in today's story didn't hold back. At a team meeting, OP's new boss asked for feedback on her performance and anything she should start or stop. The OP gave her constructive criticism, which made others angry with her.

The OP begins her story, but not without the headline

Reddit

She’s still in watch-and-learn mode, shadowing us and asking for our opinions on things

Reddit

OP thought the message had gotten through and that she would try to act on the feedback

Reddit

Understanding Feedback in the Workplace

Feedback is essential for personal and professional growth, yet it can often be met with resistance.

As noted by Dr. Adam Grant, an organizational psychologist, "People often react defensively to feedback because they feel it threatens their self-image." This perspective highlights how individuals interpret feedback through the lens of their self-esteem and personal history, which can lead to defensive reactions, particularly when feedback is perceived as a personal attack.

OP has offered the following explanation for why they think they might be the a-hole:

I publicly told my new boss something I thought she wasn’t very good at, and she was upset by it.

OP's boss was the one who asked for the feedback in front of everybody

Reddit

The OP shouldn't have undermined her credibility in front of other committees

Reddit

It's better to give constructive feedback than to be a yes-type machine

Reddit

When providing feedback, it's crucial to remain objective and focus on behaviors rather than character traits.

Research shows that constructive feedback framed positively can encourage a growth mindset, as described by psychologist Carol Dweck.

Creating an environment where feedback is seen as an opportunity for development can lead to healthier workplace dynamics.

OP's feedback might have been better received in a one-on-one meeting

Reddit

From a Redditor who has done the exact thing the OP did

It happens. I’ve done it myself, but clearing the air with honesty turned the ship, and I am glad I did it! It doesn’t even matter how it’s received; you’ve cleared your conscience. In my experience, it turns into mutual respect, which is great for everyone, including the company.

OP's colleagues didn't necessarily appreciate what was being done

Reddit

For this Redditor, it was too soon for the OP to say such words

Reddit

The Role of Emotional Intelligence

Emotional intelligence plays a vital role in how feedback is received and processed.

Research indicates that individuals with high emotional intelligence are better equipped to handle criticism and use it to foster their development.

Training in emotional intelligence can significantly enhance workplace relationships and promote a culture of constructive feedback.

OP's concerned that the delivery might have been a little different than intended

Reddit

She's good with people, and this Redditor says the OP's wrong

Reddit

There's feedback, and then there's critique

Reddit

In a workplace setting, it's essential to address misunderstandings directly to prevent escalation.

Psychologists recommend using active listening techniques to validate feelings and clarify intentions during discussions.

This approach can help reduce defensiveness and promote a more collaborative atmosphere.

Every employee will probably need to provide constructive criticism at some point in their career. Despite the genuine dread of receiving criticism, it's crucial to seize opportunities for helpful feedback.

After all, it might mean the difference between a team that struggles and one that succeeds. The OP was declared not the AH, and you can drop your own verdict in the comments section below.

Encouraging a Growth Mindset

Promoting a growth mindset within teams can transform how feedback is perceived.

According to research from Stanford University, fostering a culture that emphasizes learning from mistakes can lead to increased innovation and collaboration.

Encouraging team members to view feedback as a stepping stone rather than a setback can enhance team dynamics.

Psychological Analysis

This scenario underscores the importance of how feedback is delivered and received in professional environments.

Working towards a constructive dialogue can help mitigate feelings of defensiveness and promote personal growth.

Analysis generated by AI

Analysis & Alternative Approaches

Providing feedback in the workplace is a nuanced task that requires sensitivity and understanding.

Research consistently shows that cultivating emotional intelligence and a growth mindset can lead to more productive conversations.

Ultimately, fostering an environment of support and growth can enhance overall workplace morale.