How can you conquer your fear of giving or receiving feedback?

2 Feedback Models

The second step to overcome your fear of feedback is to use effective models and frameworks. These are tools that can help you structure and deliver your feedback in a clear, concise, and constructive way, while avoiding common pitfalls such as being vague, personal, or negative. Some examples of feedback models include the SBI model (Situation, Behavior, and Impact), the STAR model (Situation, Task, Action, and Result), and the COIN model (Context, Observation, Interpretation, and Next steps). The SBI model helps you describe the specific situation where you observed the behavior, the observable and measurable behavior itself, and the positive or negative impact of that behavior. The STAR model assists in giving feedback on a specific task or project by describing the situation, task or goal, action taken or not taken, and result or outcome achieved or not achieved. The COIN model allows you to give feedback on a broader pattern or trend by providing context or background, observation or evidence, interpretation or meaning, and next steps or suggestions.

3 Feedback Frameworks

Conquering your fear of feedback requires the use of effective frameworks and strategies. These methods can help you deliver feedback respectfully, empathetically, and supportively. They can also assist in receiving and responding to feedback in a positive, constructive, and actionable way. The Sandwich method encourages balancing feedback with a positive or appreciative comment at the start and end of the message, while the Ask-Tell-Ask method promotes respect by asking permission before giving feedback. The GROW method is a technique that uses coaching questions to help the receiver reflect on their feedback and create an action plan. This technique is based on four stages: Goal, Reality, Options, and Will, which can help empower the receiver and support their development.

4 Feedback Practice

The fourth step to conquer your fear of feedback is to practice regularly. Just like any other skill, feedback requires practice to gain proficiency. The more you practice giving and receiving feedback, the more comfortable and confident you will become. To practice effectively, you should proactively seek feedback from different sources, such as your manager, peers, customers, or mentors. Ask for specific and constructive feedback and thank the giver for their time and input. Additionally, offer your feedback generously to different people, such as your colleagues, team members, or friends. Give timely, relevant, and helpful feedback while respecting the receiver's feelings and preferences. Lastly, act on the feedback purposefully by applying it to your work, projects, or goals. Make sure the feedback aligns with your values, strengths, and priorities and monitor your progress and results.

5 Feedback Benefits

The fifth step to conquer your fear of feedback is to recognize and celebrate its benefits. Feedback can have many positive effects on your personal and professional growth, from improving performance and productivity, to boosting confidence and satisfaction, to strengthening relationships and collaboration. It can help you identify and correct your mistakes, enhance your skills, achieve objectives, recognize and leverage strengths, overcome challenges, reach potential, communicate and connect better, build trust and respect, and support each other.

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?