Figuring out feedback shouldn’t be that hard!
You know that moment when your boss says, “This is good… but it needs more”—and that’s all you get?
You nod politely. You smile. You write “more” in your notebook like it’s an actual action item. Inside, you’re thinking: More what? More detail? More visuals? More pizzazz? More hours of my life I won’t get back?
Vague feedback can be frustrating. It’s like being told to bake a cake without knowing the flavor, size, or whether they even like cake. And yet, it happens all the time.
Here’s the part most people don’t realize: vague feedback is rarely about you not “getting it.” More often, it’s about one (or a mix) of these:
1. They haven’t clarified their own vision yet.
They know something’s missing, but they can’t articulate what. So they punt the thinking back to you.
2. They’re testing your judgment.
They want to see how you interpret “more” and whether your instincts align with theirs.
3. They’re trying to be diplomatic.
Sometimes leaders avoid specifics to soften critique—especially if they know you’ve worked hard.
So, what do you do when the feedback feels like a riddle? Here’s a strategy you can use right away:
✅Ask clarifying questions without sounding defensive.
Try: “When you say more, are you thinking in terms of detail, structure, or tone?” or “Could you share an example of something that hits the mark for you?”
This turns the conversation into a collaboration, not a guessing game.
✅Offer options.
If you’re still unsure, sketch out two or three variations and ask which direction feels right. This narrows the gap between “more” and “done.”
✅Document the takeaway.
Summarize the agreed direction in an email or message. Not only does this keep you aligned—it subtly builds your reputation as someone who makes feedback actionable.
Here’s the bigger picture: how you respond to vague feedback is a visibility moment. Every time you navigate it well, you’re showing that you can think strategically, handle ambiguity, and move work forward without endless back-and-forth.
So the next time your boss drops a “needs more” on your desk, try reframing it:
This isn’t about guessing right. It’s about showing I can bridge the gap between unclear and excellent.
What’s one situation on your plate right now where you could turn vague feedback into a clear, confident next step?
Until next time…
Mal
Founder, The Ideas Accelerator
Helping you grow your career with strategic insight and smarter tools.