Career Services

Feedback for your Boss…

I was recently meeting with a client that is working casual/part-time hours. More hours were becoming available and yet the client was stunned as to why she was not being asked to step in. As we discussed, and the client shared how much she felt she was contributing at the office I began to understand what might be hindering her ability to become a full time employee. While this client’s organizational skills and attention to detail are superb, it sounded like she was constantly speaking to her supervisor about changes that she felt should be made in the office, everything from inventory placement to the way the lawn was cut outside. Whether you’re the new kid on the block or the most senior employee there is a right way to give feedback and suggestions to your boss.

Here are some tips to keep in mind;

Build the relationship first

In this case my client is a fairly new employee which makes it extremely difficult to judge how receptive your boss is to feedback. Without a good working relationship and trust your feedback will likely be impossible to receive. Get to know them – and let them get to know and trust you.

Wait to be invited to give feedback or ask to be invited

Even if you have a great relationship with your boss, rhyming off a stream of problems that you feel need to be fixed is not recommended. Ideally your boss will ask for your input and provide an environment that is safe to give feedback – so be ready to bring up your issue as well as several suggestions for a solution. If your boss is not one to ask for feedback you can ask if they would like some input. This is especially easy to do when a new project or change occurs at work; you could say something like “Would it be helpful if I gave your feedback from an employee’s perspective during this change?” or even “If you are interested I’d like to discuss some suggestions with you.” Remember that it is important to demonstrate your genuine interest in improving your service or business.

Focus on YOUR observations 

Your feedback should always focus on what you are observing at work - not what you would do if you were the boss. Frame your feedback from your own perspective -tell your boss what you have heard or observed. Example, "I've noticed that clients are annoyed with the new invoicing process...". Also remember that you need to give specifics to back up your points as well as strengthen your suggestions for improvements.