Asking for feedback

March 23, 2020

What I’ve learned about asking for feedback.

The first time I received feedback, I was taken a back. I thought my work was decent enough, yet why was it torn apart? The ACD who took his time to provide me with exceptional feedback that was brutally honest. It shook me a bit, but I needed it the most. Still to this day I’m grateful for it. And honestly with the knowledge I’ve acquired now, I would probably give past me the same feedback.

Asking for feedback is essential for learning how to make your work better. It’s definitely a daunting process, especially when you’re asking CDs and ACDs. But one thing you need to remember is not to take anything personally. When you’re getting feedback, it is only towards your work and only your work. It is not a reflection of you. Learning how to separate feedback from your work and taking it personally is a process, but you will get there. 

The type of feedback you get depends on who you’re asking. They may be blunt and honest, or they may be agreeable and worried about hurting your feelings. Feedback is something to be taken with a grain of salt – unless the majority of it is the same. If there is a consensus, then something probably needs to be changed. 

Not all feedback is weighted the same. You’re essentially asking for opinions, and in advertising, these opinions are especially subjective. I’ve gotten feedback in the past where the creative didn’t have much to say but compliments. And then I would have other creatives tell me that they don’t like the piece. It’s been confusing at times, however, it is your portfolio in the end. What you put in it reflects on you. And if one creative dislikes your piece, but three others like it, it may be worth keeping. It’s up to you in the end.

Creatives in advertising are incredibly busy people. Sometimes they just don’t have the time to give you detailed feedback. They may give you some, but it might not be enough. It’s up to you to figure out what the feedback is most impactful. You may have to seek out more to get to where you need to be. Don’t be discouraged if you don’t get a response, there are others that are so happy to help.

You can get too much feedback. Eventually, you’re going to have to take a step back and make changes to your book. Feedback is good, but when there you get too much, your direction is muddled. This is your book, and despite all the feedback, you have the final say. 

Good luck out there and remember never to take anything personally.

Also, sending out hugs to those who feel discouraged by blunt feedback!

-S.