Toby Hoffman: The Importance of Feedback During Your Internship Experience
One of my favorite questions to ask a prospective manager during the interview process is:
“How is performance assessed in this role? And further, how is feedback given?” To me, the
ability to offer and receive feedback is one of the most valuable attributes of any industry
professional. It shows maturity, self-awareness, and a genuine interest in growth, qualities that
matter in every field.
While feedback often carries an undeserved negative connotation, constructive and high-quality
feedback is one of the most important tools you will rely on early in your career. It is not just
about hearing what went well or what needs improvement. It is about recognizing patterns,
understanding expectations, and using that information to level up your contributions. The
willingness to understand and reflect on feedback, and then demonstrate real growth in your
future work products, will take you very far, both professionally and personally.
One of the best ways to support this process is by setting up regular check-ins with your
supervisor. These do not need to be long or formal, but a consistent meeting pattern, such as
weekly or biweekly, provides a structured space to ask questions, evaluate your progress, and
ensure you are aligned with your team's needs. These meetings also show your initiative and
your commitment to doing your best work. Just as importantly, they prevent surprises. If you are
regularly asking for input, you are far more likely to stay on track and avoid misunderstandings.
And on the flip side, do not underestimate the value of giving upward feedback when asked. It
can feel intimidating at first, but part of being a strong intern and an eventual full-time
professional is being able to communicate what is working for you and what is not. Maybe a
process could be clearer, or a particular type of guidance is especially helpful. Managers
appreciate this kind of insight because it helps them support you better and shows that you are
thoughtfully engaged in your experience.
At its core, feedback is a two-way street. Learning to navigate both sides of it during your
internship will not only make you a better contributor but will also help shape the kind of
professional you want to become.