Getting Assignment Feedback

Whether you are a law clerk or new lawyer one important thing you will need to do is learn how to get and accept feedback. Getting feedback is important because it is a gauge of how well you are doing your work, if it is on point with what has been asked, and if it is the way the firm wants it.

Oftentimes, you will need to ask for feedback. If some isn’t provided, do so. Timing is everything; you will need to figure out the best time to seek feedback from specific individuals. Is first thing in the day, afternoon, or at the very end of the day the best time? Also, figure out the best way to communicate – is it via email, phone, or in person? Ask these questions when you get an assignment so you know when and how to ask follow up questions. You will also use this information to seek feedback. Once, you have figured out the timing and style to seek feedback, determine what you will ask.

You may want to ask specific questions: “Did I provide enough analysis/detail/case law/statutory law?”; “Was it organized usefully/did it need more/should I have included copies of the cases or statutes?”; “Would you have approached this differently?” Or you may want to ask more open ended questions: “What did I do well/where do I need to improve?”

Upon receiving feedback be open minded and use it as a learning tool, this is really what feedback is about. Actively listen and don’t be defensive. Don’t be afraid to ask clarifying questions if need be. Listen and learn then put what you learn into practice. Remember that feedback is for you to use to make your work the best it can possibly be. Feedback is part of learning how to do your job.