Laura Learns Data

By Laura Peterson – Originally shared at NYC TUG, February 15, 2022

Who Am I?

Hi, I’m Laura Peterson. I currently serve as the BI Enablement Regional Lead at JLL. A few quick facts about me:

• I moved to NYC from London in 2019.
• I’m an enthusiastic French Bulldog lover.
• I was diagnosed with dyslexia and ADHD as an adult, a journey that has shaped how I work and connect with others.

Why Feedback Scared Me

For a long time, feedback felt intimidating—like a spotlight on everything I did wrong. And I know I’m not alone. The fear of feedback is often rooted in deeper challenges:

• Imposter Syndrome
• Fear of Rejection
• Navigating Neurodiversity

The Feedback Myth

There’s a common misconception that feedback is only essential when you’re first learning something—like Tableau. But the truth is:

Feedback is always important, no matter where you are in your journey.

How I Learned to Conquer My Fear

1. Create a Safe Space for Feedback

I use the E.A.R. approach:

• Empathy: Understand the courage it takes to give and receive feedback.
• Authenticity: Be honest, but kind.
• Respect: Assume positive intent and listen with openness.

2. Use a Feedback Model

Not all feedback environments are created equal. Ask yourself:

FORUM – Where are you asking for feedback?

• Twitter vs. Email
• One-on-one vs. Group
• Live session vs. Recorded review

FORMAT – How is your viz being evaluated?

• Layout & design vs. Content & clarity
• Free-text critique vs. Guided questions

Shoutout: Sarah Bartlett’s Iron Quest Program – a great example of a structured, positive feedback model!

3. Be Specific When Asking for Feedback

“Feedback welcome” used to be my nightmare—because it was too open-ended. I’ve learned to ask for what I actually want, like:

• “Can you help me improve the color choices here?”
• “Is the story in this dashboard clear?”

Specificity empowers the reviewer and makes the process more constructive.

Final Thoughts

Sharing your work can feel vulnerable, but it’s also how you grow.

“Don’t be afraid to share your work!”
– Andy Kriebel

If you’re holding back due to fear of feedback, know this: you’re not alone, and it gets easier with practice and support.

Thanks for reading!
– Laura Peterson
@LauraLearnsData