The One Mistake When Asking for Feedback (And What to Do Instead)
Something I've been thinking about lately is that one of the most important moments in sound design isn’t when you create something.
It’s when you play it for someone else.
Not just anyone.
Someone you trust.
Someone whose instincts sharpen your own.
A mentor. A peer. A fellow obsessive.
Because I’ve noticed something strange happens in that moment —
You hear your own work differently.
It’s weird.
Suddenly, all the strengths and flaws show up with perfect clarity.
That shift in perspective is essential.
It’s not about approval.
It’s about expanding how you hear.
Sometimes you agree with the feedback. Other times it just confirms your instincts.
Either way, you grow.
Lately I’ve seen a trend—young sound designers posting their work online and asking for feedback from total strangers.
I totally get the impulse. When you’re trying to grow, you reach for whatever’s available.
But I wouldn’t recommend it.
Not because criticism is bad, but because context matters.
The best feedback comes from people who know how you think, what you’re aiming for, and where you’re headed.
Opening yourself up to anonymous opinions—from people who don’t know you—
can do more harm than good.
It’s noise, not clarity.
Throughout my career, I’ve had mentors who pushed me, challenged me, and helped me hear things I couldn’t on my own.
I try to do the same now for others.
I've come to understand that sound isn’t just technical. It’s relational. And your instincts matter most when reflected back by someone you trust.
If you’re starting out and don’t have that kind of person in your circle yet, here’s one tip:
Start small and local.
Find one or two peers whose work you admire, and offer to trade feedback privately.
Build relationships through curiosity and generosity.
Mentorship often begins with mutual respect, not hierarchy.