This Sucks (But I’ll Tell You Nicely): A Developer’s Guide to Better Feedback

“Your solution sucks!” We’ve all heard something like this at work. How did it make you feel? And the last time you needed to criticize a colleague’s work, did you handle it as skillfully as you could have?
In this practical session, I examine the psychological mechanisms that make giving and receiving feedback so challenging, especially in technical environments where different teams must collaborate. You’ll discover why our brains react defensively to criticism and how simple neurobiological insights can transform your conversations.
I’ll share effective strategies to deliver and receive honest feedback without triggering defensive responses or damaging relationships. Whether you’re struggling to speak up to authority figures or looking to create a culture where constructive criticism thrives, you’ll leave with science-backed techniques you can apply immediately.