How do I get genuine feedback from my boss about my job security?
Basically, I am at a new job (~2 months in) doing something completely different (from buy-side to sell-side, different geography covered, different investment philosophy). I’ve been called out a few times on my writing skills being too dramatic (which fair enough, I will tone it down to keep it neutral). This has been the only complaint, besides one other complaint about the time I started working (which never happened again).
My boss is receptive to me, she knows this
will be a learning experience for me (vs. someone 10+ years into the job), and so far (apart from these issues, which I consider minor), everything seems going well? I’ve really gelled with everyone in my office, I’ve been asked to help create new products (research reports) for them, and am currently doing a monthly report with an intern (I do the text and structure, he just does the graphs and formatting). She is counting on me to cover that, and has corrected me on some of its aspects. We’ve also discussed next year’s goals.
With that said…whenever a superior corrects me on work I have done, I tend to get insecure about my job security. Essentially, I bottle this insecurity up and work towards fixing the problem, trying not to let it get to my head. But I am scared I am getting “corrected” too much, even if I am doing something that I have no prior experience whatsoever (I was a global TMT analyst in a L/S portfolio at a HF).
Should I be worried? Are these “corrections” normal/acceptable?
EDIT: I think I’ve helped as well. I have contributed by implementing ideas to improve certain reports; I am always available to help the people on my team; I have helped writing reports (phrasing, ideas, etc.); I am helping the intern with knowledge of markets such as multiple, what buy-siders want, different investment philosophies (albeit I believe I am not at all knowledgeable enough).
Based on the most helpful WSO content, it's quite normal to receive feedback and corrections, especially when transitioning to a new role with different expectations and responsibilities. Here are some points to consider:
Feedback is a Learning Tool: Corrections and constructive criticism are part of the learning curve in any new position. They are not necessarily indicative of poor job performance but rather opportunities to grow and adapt to your new role's requirements.
Open Communication: It's important to have open lines of communication with your boss. You can request a one-on-one meeting to discuss your progress and express your eagerness to improve. This shows initiative and a willingness to learn.
Set Clear Expectations: During your discussion, seek clarity on expectations and how you can meet them. Ask for specific examples of where you can improve and what success looks like in your new role.
Positive Contributions: Highlight your contributions and willingness to help the team, as well as your proactive approach to improving reports and assisting colleagues.
Seek Feedback Proactively: Don't wait for corrections to come to you. Regularly ask for feedback on your work to show that you are actively working on improving and value your superior's input.
Document Your Progress: Keep track of the feedback you receive and the steps you take to address it. This can be useful in future discussions about your performance and growth.
Remember, being corrected is not inherently negative; it's a sign that your boss is invested in your development. Stay positive, keep learning, and maintain open communication with your boss.
Sources: ~3 years experience 3 jobs, should I be worried?, I was fired today, don't know what to do...., Annual Review was bad how do I bounce back?, Just got laid off from my 3rd PE job in 4 years - help!, Be Careful what you write to HR (Real Life Example)
It doesn’t sound like feedback you’re getting is that abnormal. But you should definitely correct things that have been pointed out a few times.
Time is most valuable asset for an analyst. Associates add value by saving analyst time and they drag down the team by costing analyst time.
Repeatedly correcting the same things is definitely a drag on the analyst’s time. You can think of ways that you will save her time.
Thanks for your insight. I am trying to do what you said (fix my issues), the only real persisting one is that my language tends to be non-neutral. I am still figuring it out since I didn’t really write much at the HF.
Also, there was a one-time thing like disagreeing on market perspective, and it has mostly (albeit I believe not too many) just general writing things like “this is vague”.
I think I am performing, but at the same time I feel the imposter syndrome hitting hard. I really want this to work out
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