How do you handle feedback and conflicts with your partners during the account planning and review process?

1 Establish a clear and consistent communication channel

Communication is the foundation of any successful partnership. You need to establish a clear and consistent communication channel with your partners, preferably using a dedicated platform or tool that allows you to share information, updates, and feedback in real time. You also need to set a regular schedule for account planning and review meetings, and stick to it. This way, you can avoid misunderstandings, delays, and surprises that can lead to frustration and conflict. Moreover, you can use communication as an opportunity to build rapport, show appreciation, and reinforce your commitment to your partners.

2 Listen actively and empathetically to feedback

Feedback is a valuable source of learning and improvement for both you and your partners. However, feedback can also be challenging to receive and give, especially if it is negative or critical. Therefore, you need to listen actively and empathetically to feedback, and avoid being defensive, dismissive, or argumentative. You need to acknowledge your partner's perspective, ask clarifying questions, and show interest and curiosity. You also need to express your gratitude for the feedback, and explain how you will use it to improve your performance and partnership.

3 Address conflicts constructively and respectfully

Conflicts are inevitable in any partnership, especially when there are different opinions, interests, or expectations involved. However, conflicts can also be opportunities for growth and innovation, if they are addressed constructively and respectfully. You need to approach conflicts with a positive and collaborative mindset, and focus on finding solutions rather than assigning blame. You also need to respect your partner's views and feelings, and avoid personal attacks, insults, or accusations. Moreover, you need to use effective communication skills, such as active listening, paraphrasing, summarizing, and reframing, to ensure that you understand each other and reach a mutual agreement.

4 Align your goals and expectations with your partners

One of the main purposes of account planning and review is to align your goals and expectations with your partners, and ensure that you are on the same page regarding your strategy, tactics, and metrics. You need to involve your partners in the account planning and review process, and solicit their input, feedback, and suggestions. You also need to clarify your roles and responsibilities, and define your expectations and deliverables. Furthermore, you need to monitor and measure your progress and results, and share them with your partners regularly. This way, you can avoid gaps, discrepancies, and disappointments that can cause feedback and conflicts.

5 Seek support and guidance when needed

Sometimes, feedback and conflicts can be too complex or sensitive to handle on your own, and you may need to seek support and guidance from other sources. For example, you may need to consult with your manager, mentor, or coach for advice, feedback, or mediation. You may also need to leverage your network, resources, or tools to find best practices, solutions, or examples. Additionally, you may need to refer to your partner agreement, contract, or policy for clarification, resolution, or escalation. However, you should always inform your partners of your actions, and keep them updated on the outcomes.