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Summer fests, rooftop events, lunches with lawyers—my belly has gotten out of hand! But it did not really bother me until someone else pointed it out. It was a rather blunt observation from a friend who was not trying to be mean. And boy did it have an impact. I'm back on the bike, and my favorite chips and dips are off-limits for awhile. I am fortunate to have people in my life who are willing to get real with me. Who do you have in your professional life who can get real with you? Bosses come in many varieties, and many fail to get constructive criticism right. Bad bosses often deliver negative feedback in a confrontational way that fails to help, because, well … to heck with that guy. Really bad bosses keep negative feedback to themselves, because they can't handle uncomfortable conversation. More and more, bosses focus only on positive reinforcement, which in many respects is quite understandable. The most honest and helpful constructive criticism often comes from mentors, friends and outside resources (including recruiters!), people who only want success and happiness for you. Find truth tellers and ask them to offer valuable criticism, especially of your interpersonal skills and demeanor. Don't wait for this kind of feedback to occur incidentally; seek it out. Be open and explain that you want help identifying any negative behaviors. Your contacts will respect this proactive effort. If you find this approach too uncomfortable, hire a career coach. The goods ones, and many specialize in working with attorneys, understand how to build on your strengths and identify your weaknesses. Don't be defensive, logical or lawyerly when you hear criticism. Take it to heart. You should always be open to self-improvement and course corrections. When someone identifies a problem that needs fixing, that person has given you a priceless gift. Be grateful for it. Mike Evers recruits attorneys for corporate legal departments throughout the United States. Visit www.everslegal.com. His firm also offers experienced in-house counsel to companies on an adjunct basis.