Most people say they want to grow, but when faced with feedback—especially critical feedback—they shut down, get defensive, or ignore it altogether.
Here’s the truth: Feedback is one of the most powerful tools for growth if you know how to use it.
In the MBA application process and in life, feedback isn’t just about making improvements. It’s about unlocking new insights, refining your approach, and becoming a better version of yourself.
The key is learning how to receive feedback with an open mind and give it in a way that truly helps others.
How to Receive Feedback Like a Pro
We often resist feedback because it feels personal. But the best applicants, leaders, and high achievers know that constructive criticism is a gift. Here’s how to make the most of it.
1. Detach Emotion from Feedback
It’s natural to feel defensive when someone critiques your work, but feedback isn’t about you. It’s about your approach, ideas, or execution. Instead of reacting emotionally, take a breath and focus on the message.
2. Listen to Understand, Not to Respond
Often, when we receive feedback, we start formulating a response before the other person has even finished speaking. Instead, listen fully, absorb the insights, and then reflect before responding.
3. Ask Clarifying Questions
If feedback feels vague or unhelpful, don’t be afraid to ask for specifics. Questions like:
- What part of my essay feels unclear?
- Can you give an example of where my argument loses impact?
- What would make this stronger?
These questions turn generic criticism into actionable advice.
4. Separate Useful Feedback from Noise
Not all feedback is valuable. Some opinions come from people who don’t understand your goals or don’t have the expertise to guide you. Learn to differentiate between helpful insights and irrelevant opinions.
How to Give Feedback That Actually Helps
Great feedback isn’t just about pointing out flaws. It’s about helping someone improve in a way that empowers them. Whether you’re reviewing a friend’s essay, mentoring a colleague, or leading a team, these principles apply.
1. Be Specific
Vague feedback like “This could be better” isn’t helpful. Instead, say: “This section feels rushed. Consider adding an example to make it more compelling.”
This is one of the most common feedback points we give applicants. Last year, for example, while helping Paul prepare his ultimately successful Wharton application, we encouraged him to go more into detail about how he could contribute to the Private Equity and Venture Capital club.
Rather than just mentioning he had a background in the area so he wanted to get involved, he detailed how his experience had allowed him to build an impressive network in the field and how he wanted to use it to help organize the annual Private Equity and Venture Capital Conference.
2. Balance Critique with Encouragement
People absorb feedback better when they also hear what’s working. Instead of only focusing on what’s wrong, highlight strengths and suggest ways to enhance them.
3. Make It Actionable
Effective feedback gives the person a clear next step. Instead of “Your argument isn’t strong enough,” try “If you tie this back to your leadership experience, it will feel more persuasive.”
4. Know When to Step Back
Giving feedback doesn’t mean taking over. Offer guidance, but let the person make their own decisions.
The goal is to help them grow, not to reshape their work into something you would have done differently.
Embrace Feedback as a Tool for Growth
The people who succeed in the MBA process, in leadership, and in life aren’t the ones who avoid feedback. They’re the ones who seek it out, use it wisely, and continuously refine their approach.
Instead of fearing feedback, start seeing it as one of your greatest assets. Growth isn’t about getting everything right the first time. It’s about learning, adjusting, and coming back stronger.
Ready to Apply This Mindset to Your MBA Journey?
At Ellin Lolis Consulting, we believe that feedback is the key to crafting a standout MBA application. Our All-In Services provide expert guidance, thoughtful critiques, and actionable strategies to help you refine your story and present the strongest version of yourself.
Apply to Work With Us today and experience how the right feedback can transform your application and your future.
Great applications, like great leaders, are shaped by feedback. Are you ready to use it to your advantage?
Real MBA Essays That Got People In
School-specific sample essays that got our clients accepted
