Your team member refuses to accept design feedback. How can you effectively address their resistance?

This often happens between a designer and a project manager. When someone resists design feedback, they need a reminder of why and who they’re designing for. New designers can sometimes get caught up in the artistic side and forget about functionality, so it’s important to bring them back to the purpose and the audience. Another key point is involving designers in the entire strategy, so they understand the “why” behind what we’re doing. Sometimes, they’re left out of important conversations, which can lead to misunderstandings or missed context. Keeping them in the loop helps align their work with the bigger picture.

When a team member pushes back against design feedback, it’s essential to tackle it with a positive vibe. I start by fostering an open, respectful dialogue that emphasizes collaboration over criticism. By setting clear expectations around feedback and its impact on the project’s success, I help shift the focus from personal feelings to the bigger picture. Encouraging self-reflection also allows them to identify growth opportunities without feeling defensive.

To effectively address a team member’s resistance to design feedback, start by fostering open communication. Approach them privately and express understanding of their perspective while emphasizing that feedback is meant to enhance the project, not criticize their skills. Encourage a collaborative discussion, where they can share their concerns, and explain the rationale behind the feedback in a constructive, non-confrontational manner. Highlight the team’s shared goals and how incorporating feedback can lead to better outcomes. If necessary, suggest a compromise or alternative solutions, and reinforce the importance of flexibility and teamwork in the design process.

Resistance to feedback often comes from a place of pride, but it can stall progress if not addressed. The trick is framing feedback as a tool for growth, not critique. When team members see feedback as a way to elevate their work rather than diminish it, the shift in mindset can be transformative. How have you navigated situations where feedback wasn’t immediately embraced?

Addressing a team member’s resistance to design feedback requires a blend of empathy, clear communication, and constructive dialogue. Here’s how you can handle the situation effectively: Create a Safe Environment: Start by ensuring that your team member feels comfortable sharing their thoughts. Resistance often stems from feeling undervalued or misunderstood, so make sure they know their work is appreciated. Seek to Understand: Have a private, non-confrontational conversation to understand why they’re resistant. Are they emotionally attached to their design? Do they feel the feedback was unclear or unfair? Listening to their perspective can uncover underlying concerns

1. Understand the root cause: Have a private conversation to uncover underlying issues. 2. Frame feedback positively: Focus on growth opportunities rather than criticisms. 3. Lead by example: Demonstrate openness to feedback yourself. 4. Implement peer reviews: Encourage feedback from multiple team members. 5. Set clear expectations: Establish feedback as a crucial part of the design process.

To address a team member's resistance to design feedback, I would start by initiating an open conversation to understand their perspective and actively listen to their concerns. I would then present the pros and cons of the design based on the feedback, helping them see the rationale behind the suggestions. Encouraging a collaborative approach, I would work together to find a compromise that incorporates their ideas while addressing the feedback. Lastly, I would reiterate our common goals, emphasizing how the feedback aligns with achieving the best outcome for the project, fostering a sense of teamwork and shared vision.