Being overly broad This will make you look like you don’t know what you’re doing and annoy the other person if you’re asking them for feedback on an entire project or document. Examples: ✗ “Could you read over these first 12 chapters for me and let me know what you think?” ✓ “I’ve attached a document with a few highlighted sections I’m unsure about regarding the language and formatting, could you read them over and let me know if you think those elements are effective?” Asking yes or no questions Feedback implies that you’re asking an open-ended question, meaning, there’s more to the answer than yes or no. Use these only when necessary or when asking a very specific question. Examples: ✗ “Is this completely wrong?” ✓ “Am I on the right track here with the payroll format? What can I improve?” Asking too many questions Whether you’re asking your coworker, boss, friend, or a professional, avoid asking too many questions. Instead, focus on specific things you’d like feedback on (and for larger documents, let them know where to find it). Examples: ✗ “What do you think the theme is for this chapter? Is the dialogue realistic? What do you think of the POV change in chapters 4, 12, and 15? Should I add more smaller conflicts before the climax?” ✓ “How effective is the pacing from chapters 4 to 6 (pgs. 80-114)?” Using an unprofessional or curt tone Avoid a rude or informal tone when asking for feedback. You’re asking someone to do you a favor, so ask nicely! Examples: ✗ “Hey, look at the attached document and give me notes ASAP.” ✓ “If you have a spare moment, I’d really appreciate you looking at the attached document and giving me any notes you may have about the format. Thank you!” Cold-sending a manuscript Sending someone your manuscript (or any large document to look over) without asking first comes off as disrespectful and gives the impression that you feel entitled to their feedback. Unless you specifically tell them you will pay them for their time and energy, always ask first. Examples: ✗ “I really love your books so I figured I’d send you my manuscript (it’s also about the relationship between Buddhism and quantum physics). Please read it when you get a chance and let me know what you think!” ✓ “You have edited some of my favorite works of nonfiction and I have a manuscript that touches on similar topics. I’m fully prepared to compensate you for your feedback if you can carve out some time from your busy schedule.” Unreadable or unprofessional formatting Shoddy design/layout and hard-to-read fonts will only annoy your reader(s). Make sure your document (or online survey page) is readable and looks professional. ✗ “How satisfied are you with the speed of our service?” ✓ “How satisfied are you with the speed of our service?” Rejecting their feedback If you receive feedback that you don’t particularly like, avoid berating them for giving you that advice. You asked for it, so accept their feedback with humility and grace. Examples: ✗ “Umm, no. That sounds like a really stupid way to format it.” ✓ “Thank you, I appreciate your feedback will be implementing some of those elements.”