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How and When to Ask for Feedback at a New Job

The first few weeks and months on a new job are critical, as you set the stage for your long-term success. Getting timely feedback from your manager and other team members shows that you’re invested, committed, and ready to excel. It also gives you the opportunity to ask key questions and clarify any issues that may be vague at this point.

When to Ask

Exactly when to ask for feedback is a judgment call based on the volume and level of involvement of your work. But as a general rule of thumb, a good time to take this step is somewhere between one and three weeks after starting your job.

  • Don’t be needy. Asking about your performance too soon or too often is a real turnoff. You want to come off as a professional, not a neurotic. Keep it relaxed and matter-of-fact. On a positive note, asking at the right time and in the right way shows maturity, confidence and dedication.

How to Ask

Reach out via email or in person and request a meeting with your boss. They’ll appreciate the heads-up so they can prepare. You might word your ask something like this: “I’d like about 15 minutes of your time to talk about how you think I’m doing so far. Are you satisfied with my performance? Is there anything I should be doing differently?”

  • Articulate what’s required. Find out the objectives for an assignment at the outset, so you both can measure how well you’re meeting them.
  • Be prepared to coach your manager on any resources you need. For instance, this may include additional training or a tracking or project management system to share what you’re working on.

Who to Ask

In addition to your manager, your new coworkers can be a great source of feedback. Your email to them can be less formal than the one you send your boss.

  • Say something like, “I’m really liking it here so far, and I’d really appreciate some feedback from you to make sure I’m on the right track. Can I buy you a cup of coffee so we can chat for a few minutes?” You can do them a favor in return.

Reality Check

Be realistic when you solicit feedback: It may not always be 100 percent positive – and that’s fine. In fact, it’s almost the whole point of asking: You need honest input in order to make any necessary improvements.

  • Keep your ego in check. Stay open and non-judgmental. Listen actively and don’t get defensive.
  • Send a follow-up email to thank your manager or colleague for their time and candor. Briefly outline your takeaways and any next steps you plan to take. Then, implement those improvements ASAP. Then, follow up again to make sure they’re correct and noticed.

To explore positions that might interest you as you consider your next career move – and for the advice, resources and expertise to make it a success – contact PrideStaff Modesto today. No need to go it alone: we’ll get you started down the right path, right away.

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