How do you handle criticism and feedback from colleagues and superiors?

SENIOR LEVEL
How do you handle criticism and feedback from colleagues and superiors?
Sample answer to the question:
I handle criticism and feedback from colleagues and superiors by maintaining a positive mindset and recognizing that it is an opportunity for growth. I actively listen to their feedback and try to understand their perspective. If the criticism is constructive, I take it as an opportunity to improve and make necessary adjustments. I am open to different viewpoints and suggestions and I use the feedback to enhance my skills and knowledge. Additionally, I actively seek feedback from my colleagues and superiors, as I believe continuous improvement is essential in the field of surgery.
Here is a more solid answer:
Handling criticism and feedback is crucial, especially in the high-pressure environment of acute care surgery. I approach criticism with an open mind, recognizing that it is an opportunity for growth. For example, during my residency, I received feedback from a senior surgeon about my decision-making in emergency procedures. Instead of becoming defensive, I took the feedback to heart and sought additional guidance from the surgeon to understand their perspective. I made adjustments to my approach and saw significant improvements in my decision-making skills. I also actively seek feedback from my colleagues and superiors, as their insights can help me become a better surgeon. This approach demonstrates my commitment to continuous improvement and my ability to handle criticism constructively.
Why is this a more solid answer?
The solid answer includes a specific example from the candidate's past experience and highlights their ability to handle criticism and feedback constructively. It also mentions actively seeking feedback from colleagues and superiors, which aligns with the leadership and communication skills required for the Acute Care Surgeon role. However, it could provide more details or specific examples of how the candidate has used feedback to enhance their surgical skills and patient outcomes.
An example of a exceptional answer:
In the high-stress environment of acute care surgery, handling criticism and feedback effectively is essential for continuous growth and improvement. I have developed a comprehensive approach to receiving and utilizing feedback. When receiving criticism, I remain calm and approach it as an opportunity to learn and excel. For instance, when a colleague pointed out errors in my documentation, I not only corrected them but also attended a medical coding course to improve my documentation skills. I actively seek feedback from colleagues and superiors on my surgical techniques, communication, and leadership skills. One example is when I collaborated on a complex case with a senior surgeon who provided valuable insights into my decision-making and communication with the team. I took their feedback to heart and implemented their suggestions, resulting in a smoother surgical procedure and improved patient outcomes. This exceptional approach showcases my adaptability, commitment to continuous learning, and the ability to incorporate feedback effectively.
Why is this an exceptional answer?
The exceptional answer includes a specific example of the candidate attending a medical coding course to improve their documentation skills, which demonstrates their commitment to continuous learning and professional growth. It also provides a detailed example of how they incorporated feedback from a senior surgeon to improve their surgical techniques and communication. This answer showcases the candidate's ability to handle criticism and feedback effectively while highlighting their communication and leadership skills, as well as their commitment to providing the highest level of patient care.
How to prepare for this question:
  • Reflect on past experiences where you received criticism or feedback and how you handled it. Think about the outcome and what you learned from those experiences.
  • Research different techniques for receiving and utilizing feedback effectively, such as active listening, seeking clarification, and implementing constructive suggestions.
  • Consider specific examples or stories from your past experiences where you received and incorporated feedback to enhance your skills and performance.
  • Practice responding to potential criticism or feedback scenarios during mock interview sessions to build confidence and improve your communication skills.
What are interviewers evaluating with this question?
  • Communication
  • Leadership
  • Continuous Learning
  • Ability to handle stress

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