Roleplay Scenario
Scenario Overview
A peer has received some unexpected feedback from a recent 360-review, and it's hitting them hard. Your role is to help them process this feedback, see its potential benefits, and create a plan for improvement, all while being supportive and positive. This scenario emphasizes empathy, listening, and working together to find solutions.
Roles & Setup
Role A – Mentor (You)
You are guiding your peer through the feedback process.
Your goal: Help them see the feedback as a chance to grow and find ways to improve together.
Role B – Peer
You’ve received some tough feedback and are feeling discouraged.
Your goal: Understand the feedback and figure out how to improve.
Suggested Openers
Mentor:
- “Hey, I heard you got some feedback that’s been tough. Want to chat about it and see how we can make it work for you?”
- “Feedback can be tricky. Let’s go through it and come up with a plan that helps you move forward.”
Peer:
- “I’m having a hard time with the feedback I got. It feels harsh, and I’m not sure what to do next.”
- “I thought I was doing well, but this feedback has really thrown me off balance. Can you help me work through it?”
Sample Roleplay in Action
Mentor:
“Hey, I heard you got some feedback that’s been tough to deal with. Want to talk about it and figure out what we can do?”
Peer:
“Yeah, that’d be great. The feedback said I’m not working well with the team, but I didn’t think that was an issue. It’s really got me second-guessing myself.”
Mentor:
“Got it. It’s hard when feedback doesn’t match what we expect. Can you give me some details on what they said?”
Peer:
“They mentioned I tend to take over in meetings and don’t give others much room to speak. I didn’t realize that was happening.”
Mentor:
“Thanks for sharing. Sometimes our enthusiasm can come across differently. Maybe we can think of ways to make sure everyone gets a chance to contribute in meetings?”
Peer:
“That could work. I could start by asking others for their thoughts more often or setting an agenda that includes everyone’s input.”
Mentor:
“That sounds like a solid plan. How about we touch base after you try this out a few times and see how it’s going?”
Peer:
“That sounds good. Thanks for helping me see this in a new light and turning it into something I can work on.”
Mentor:
“Anytime. Remember, feedback is a tool for growth, and you’re already taking steps in the right direction. Let’s catch up in a couple of weeks to check on your progress.”
Post-Scenario Tools
Curveball Mode (Optional)
Add complexity by introducing one of these challenges mid-roleplay:
- Feedback includes vague or conflicting points that need clarification.
- Peer becomes more defensive or emotional during the discussion.
- A new piece of feedback arrives during the conversation.
Reflection Checklist
As the Mentor:
- Did you listen attentively and with empathy?
- Did you help your peer view feedback as a chance to grow?
- Did you work together to create actionable steps?
As the Peer:
- Did you express your feelings honestly?
- Did you stay open to seeing the feedback as constructive?
- Did you participate in creating an action plan?
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Jumping to conclusions without understanding the feedback fully
- Offering solutions without involving the peer
- Ignoring emotional responses and focusing only on logic
Pro Tip
Feedback should be a conversation, not a lecture. Encourage open dialogue and focus on how the feedback can lead to growth, keeping the conversation positive and future-oriented.