Today we’re talking about something every designer—and every client—needs to master: Constructive feedback.
The good, the bad, and the downright confusing.
Whether you’re the one giving it or receiving it, feedback can feel like a punch to the gut.
But it doesn’t have to.
Let’s be real—we have had those moments where we pour our hearts into a design and get… ‘meh.’
So let’s talk about how to take it, how to give it, and how to make feedback work for you, not against you.
Key Takeaways:
- Why we sometimes take constructive feedback personally
- Examples of giving great feedback on designs
- Tips to help you respond to constructive feedback
Why Feedback Feels Personal
Design is personal.
Even when we know we’re solving for strategy, our creative souls are involved. And when feedback feels vague or harsh, it hits deep.
But guess what?
The feedback isn’t about your worth—it’s about aligning with the goal. Always bring it back to the purpose.
When you create something from scratch and someone critiques it, it’s easy to feel like you’re being critiqued.
It’s normal to immediately feel defensive. Don’t respond right away. Sit with it first, then respond.
We care because we care! Our designs mean a lot to us, but caring doesn’t mean we can’t grow. We need constructive feedback to grow our skillset and better understand our clients.
If it doesn’t sting at least a little, you’re probably not pushing creatively.
Giving Great Feedback as a Client
Okay, clients who are reading this—we love you. But saying ‘make it pop’ doesn’t help. Everyone wants their designs to stand out.
What does help?
Tell us what problem this needs to solve.
For example, instead of ‘I don’t like this color,’ say ‘I’m worried this color doesn’t feel professional enough for our audience.’ (Listen to Episode #156 to learn why color theory is important in design!)
Feedback that aligns with your goals is more helpful than feedback based on gut feelings.
Here are a few things to keep in mind before offering constructive feedback:
- Skip the “I just don’t like it.” Tell us why it’s not working for you.
- Remember: You hired a designer for their strategy, not just their style.
- You don’t need to know the right words. Just be honest and specific.
Giving Feedback as a Designer to Your Internal Team
This is something new to us as we’re growing our team! Dana and Laura are Court’s sidekicks on the design side of our business. They are absolutely amazing, and we are so grateful for everything they do for us!
But that doesn’t mean we never offer constructive feedback on their work.
The important thing to remember is that we aren’t just giving notes—we’re coaching. It’s our job to sharpen the work, not flatten the creativity.
If you’re in a similar situation where you’re giving feedback to designers on your team, follow these tips:
- Praise first, redirect second. Sandwich the feedback if needed.
- Lead with curiosity: “What was your thought process behind this approach?”
- Don’t nitpick. Instead, ask: “Does this align with the client’s goals and brand?”
- Avoid “This isn’t it.” Try “What would it look like if we pushed this further?”
- Make it a conversation, not a takedown or combative.
- Try: “Let’s revisit the strategy here—do you think this design supports it fully?”
Receiving Constructive Feedback as a Designer
Here’s the hard part – how do you gracefully accept constructive feedback as a designer?
Take a breath before you respond. Just one deep breath can make all the difference.
Listen fully to understand where they’re coming from before you start explaining your choices. This is a conversation, and you are the design expert. Sometimes, clients focus on the aesthetics and are unaware of the brand strategy behind your choices.
Respond with something like “Thanks for that. Can you tell me more about what’s not working for you?”
Detach from your ego. Your ego is what’s feeling hurt and defensive. You’re solving a problem with your designs, not painting your masterpiece.
Remind yourself: Revisions are a sign of collaboration, not failure or personal attacks. You are working together to achieve the client’s goal.
How Do You Take Constructive Feedback?
At the end of the day, we’re all trying to create something amazing. Feedback isn’t about pointing fingers—it’s about collaboration.
Let’s make feedback feel less scary and more like a creative hug. Or at least a high-five.
Let us know on Instagram a story about giving or receiving constructive feedback—the good, bad, or ugly. We want to hear it!
And if you want to get those creative juices flowing again after receiving some feedback, our brand party quiz is just what you need!
FAQs About Constructive Feedback
How to take criticism without getting defensive?
Separate the feedback from you. It’s not about you. It’s about aligning your designs with what the client is looking for.
How to gracefully accept criticism?
Don’t respond right away. Give yourself a moment to think so you don’t react emotionally.
Thank them for the feedback and stay calm as you explain your design choices. You aren’t defending yourself—you’re explaining the strategy and allowing the client to make an informed decision.
What are good examples of constructive feedback?
Effective feedback is specific, actionable, and respectful. The goal is to help people improve, not cut them down.
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Abbey Oslin and Courtney Petersen are Minnesota-based marketing experts, educators, and co-founders of boutique marketing agency Duo Collective, which specializes in SEO, social media strategy, and branding for small business owners and creative entrepreneurs. To learn more about Duo Collective, or to inquire about working with our team, head over to www.duocollective.com.
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