What do you do if your GIS project team is resistant to feedback?

1 Understand Why

To address resistance, first understand why your GIS team might be pushing back against feedback. It's possible they feel their expertise is being challenged or that the feedback isn't relevant to their specific tasks. Sometimes, the issue may stem from a lack of understanding of the project goals or the feedback process itself. By identifying the root cause, you can tailor your approach to address their concerns directly and reassure them that their contributions are valued and essential to the project's success.

2 Open Dialogue

Creating an open dialogue is essential for overcoming resistance to feedback within your GIS team. Encourage team members to voice their concerns and make it clear that feedback is a two-way street. This can be done through regular meetings or anonymous suggestion boxes. Discussing the purpose and benefits of feedback openly can help demystify the process and demonstrate how it can lead to improved outcomes for the project and professional growth for the team.

3 Set Expectations

Clear expectations around feedback are crucial for a GIS project. You should establish a structured feedback process that outlines when and how feedback will be given and received. This could involve scheduled review sessions and specific criteria for evaluating work. By setting these guidelines, your team will know what to expect and can prepare to engage with feedback more constructively.

4 Provide Training

Sometimes resistance to feedback stems from a lack of skills in receiving or implementing suggestions. Offering training sessions can help your GIS team develop these skills. These sessions could cover topics like active listening, critical thinking, and how to make changes based on feedback. By investing in your team's professional development, you not only improve the project but also show that you value their growth.

5 Positive Reinforcement

Positive reinforcement can go a long way in changing attitudes towards feedback within your GIS team. Recognize and reward team members who actively engage with feedback and demonstrate improvements in their work. This not only boosts morale but also sets a positive example for others to follow. Celebrating small wins can create a more open and collaborative environment that is conducive to continuous improvement.

6 Follow Through

Lastly, it's important to follow through on the feedback provided. If your GIS team sees that their efforts to respond to feedback are acknowledged and lead to tangible changes, they are more likely to be receptive in the future. Ensure that there is a system in place to implement feedback and track progress. This shows your team that their hard work is having an impact and that their willingness to adapt is valued.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?