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4 Tips for Getting the Right Kind of Feedback at a New Job

The first 90 days on a new job set the stage for your long-term success. This is the time to deliver on the promises you made during your hiring process and solidify how your manager and peers will perceive you.

No pressure, right?

Seriously, while this input is critical, there are ways to get it in a meaningful way that will also demonstrate your interest, commitment, and dedication to being a valuable part of the team. Start by following these four tips: the who, what, when, and how of new job feedback:

When to Ask

There’s no hard and fast rule regarding when to ask for feedback after you start a job. It’s a function of the company culture that you’ve just stepped into. But, without a doubt, asking too soon or too often is a no-no. Don’t be needy.

  • When to ask also depends largely on the volume and level of involvement of your work. An ideal time is at the completion of an important task or assignment.
  • Strike a balance. Give your new colleagues enough time to form a concrete opinion of you and your performance. At the same time, take a proactive stance.

Who to Ask

Don’t just ask your boss for feedback. Ask around. Coworkers are a great resource, as is someone who started in your job and has since been promoted.

  • Of course, you’ll also ask your manager. But a feedback request from others generally doesn’t have to be quite as formal. You may want to email them and say something like: “Hey, I really like it here so far, and I would also appreciate your opinion on how I’m doing so far. Can I buy you coffee on break so we can talk?”

What to Ask

Give your manager some suggestions as to what you need to know. You may want to ask them, “How am I doing so far in terms of integrating with the team?” or “Am I working at the right pace to get the job done?”

  • Remember, effective feedback is a two-way process. This is also the time to coach your boss regarding what you need to succeed. Maybe it’s one-on-one meetings as you get acclimated, further training in a specific area, or a project management system so the two of you can share what you’re working on.

How to Ask

Regardless of whom you ask for feedback, focus your inquiry on the specific nature of your work product. For example, find out the objectives of an assignment at the onset, and then try to measure whether or not you’re meeting them, and to what degree.

  • Don’t be a stalker. Instead, reach out tactfully via email or in-person and request a short meeting. Explain the reason for it. The person on the receiving end of your message will appreciate the heads up, so they can prepare.

A professional career coach from PrideStaff Fresno can help, not only as you find your next great career opportunity, but also as you transition into your new role. We can work with you from start to finish in your successful job search strategy. To learn more, contact us today.

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