Ever received feedback like, “It’s not working. Just make it better”? If you’re a designer, you’ve probably faced this frustrating moment. It’s tempting to brush it off as unhelpful, but what if I told you this feedback holds hidden clues? With the right approach, even the vaguest comment can unlock breakthroughs.
Here’s how you can navigate feedback, understand its core, and use it to elevate your work.
Signs of unhelpful feedback
Not all feedback is created equal. Some of it feels like hitting a brick wall. Here are three common examples:
1. “It’s not working. Just make it better.”
Challenge: This feedback lacks direction. What’s “better” supposed to look like? Without specifics, you’re left guessing.
Solution: Ask clarifying questions. Say, “Can you share what feels off? Is it the layout, colors, or message?” This shifts the conversation from vague critiques to actionable insights.
2. “This doesn’t feel right for our audience.”
Challenge: Subjective comments like this often stem from fear. Stakeholders worry the design won’t resonate.
Solution: Respond with curiosity. “What about this design feels misaligned? How would you describe what the audience needs?” You’ll uncover their real concerns.
3. “Let’s add something to make it stand out.”
Challenge: Adding “something” can clutter the design or dilute the message. This often reflects a fear of being overlooked.
Solution: Redirect to goals. “What’s the main impression we want this design to leave? How can we enhance that?” This focuses the discussion on impact rather than decoration.
Figure out what they really mean
Most vague feedback has deeper roots. Spotting these hidden messages can transform frustrating moments into meaningful conversations.
Spot the fear: Feedback often reveals anxiety rather than design flaws. When someone says, “This doesn’t feel right,” they might be worried about a missed opportunity or a potential backlash. Ask, “What’s the biggest risk you see here?”
Connect to goals: Redirect the feedback to measurable outcomes. Instead of debating taste, ask, “What result are you hoping this achieves?” This reframes the discussion around objectives.
Challenge gently: Not all feedback aligns with the project’s purpose. If someone suggests a drastic change, respond with, “Does this align with the audience’s needs?” You’re not dismissing their idea; you’re aligning it with strategy.
How to filter feedback effectively
Feedback can either derail or elevate your work. The key is knowing what to act on and what to clarify. Here’s a simple formula:
Actionable + Specific = Do it
Example: “The headline is hard to read on mobile. Can we increase font size?” This is clear and directly tied to improvement.
Vague = Clarify
Example: “I don’t love the vibe.” Ask, “What specific element feels off? Is it the colors or tone?” This turns ambiguity into actionable input.
Opinion = Redirect to goals
Example: “My favorite color is blue. Can we use that?” Pivot with, “Does blue help communicate the brand’s personality?” Aligning opinions with goals keeps the design focused.
My experience with vague feedback
Early in my career, I took every piece of feedback at face value. It led to endless revisions and frustration. One project stands out: a client kept saying, “It needs more pop.” After rounds of tweaks, I realized I never asked what “pop” meant to them. When I finally did, they just wanted brighter colors. A 10-minute conversation could have saved hours.
Now, I approach feedback differently. Instead of reacting, I pause, ask questions, and dig deeper. This mindset shift has turned feedback into a tool for collaboration rather than conflict.
Practical steps you can take today
1. Prepare for feedback sessions.
Before presenting your work, frame the conversation. Share the project’s goals and constraints upfront to guide feedback.
2. Keep the focus on outcomes
When feedback goes off-track, steer it back with questions like, “How does this help achieve our goal?”
3. Practice active listening
Listen to understand, not to respond. Even the most frustrating feedback often contains a valuable nugget.
4. Don’t take it personally
Remember, feedback is about the work, not you. Stay objective and solution-focused.
5. Reflect after the session
What went well? What could you have clarified? Use these lessons to improve future discussions.
Final thoughts
Feedback, whether helpful or vague, is a chance to grow. It’s not about pleasing everyone, it’s about refining your craft and delivering value.
Approach feedback with curiosity, align it with goals, and turn critiques into breakthroughs.
How do you handle vague feedback? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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