Receive feedback and clarify expectations

You can explore criticism without becoming defensive straight away

Your manager says your message to a client was unclear. First find out exactly what was unclear and what effect it had. A specific example can help you distinguish useful feedback from a general impression.

You could ask: “Which part would you change first? I want to clarify whether the main conclusion was missing or the next step for the client.” If you agree with some of the feedback, acknowledge that. If you don’t, add context and ask what standard was expected. When you give feedback, focus on specific behaviour and its impact, not on the person’s character.