How can you use feedback to build trust and rapport with others?

1 What is mindful feedback?

Mindful feedback is feedback that is delivered and received with awareness, intention, and compassion. It is not about judging, blaming, or avoiding, but about communicating honestly, respectfully, and constructively. Mindful feedback aims to support the development and success of both the giver and the receiver, and to foster a positive and collaborative culture.

2 Why is mindful feedback important?

Mindful feedback is important because it can help you and others to achieve your goals, to overcome your challenges, and to enhance your strengths. It can also help you to build trust and rapport with others, by showing that you care about their well-being, their perspectives, and their potential. Mindful feedback can also reduce the negative emotions and reactions that often accompany feedback, such as anxiety, defensiveness, or resentment, and increase the positive ones, such as gratitude, confidence, or motivation.

3 How to give mindful feedback?

To give mindful feedback, you need to ensure that you are adequately prepared, deliver the feedback in a respectful manner, and follow up appropriately. Before giving feedback, take the time to clarify your purpose and expectations, as well as the receiver's needs and preferences. When delivering the feedback, focus on facts rather than opinions. Use specific examples with evidence to back up your points and be sure to express both positive and negative aspects. Additionally, use "I" statements and avoid "you" statements that could be interpreted as blame or criticism. After delivering the feedback, check for understanding and agreement while also asking for feedback on your own feedback. Offer support and resources for the receiver, set realistic goals and action plans, and monitor and acknowledge progress.

4 How to receive mindful feedback?

To receive mindful feedback, it is essential to listen, reflect, and act on the feedback in a mindful way. When receiving feedback, it is important to pay attention to the giver and the message. Make sure to avoid interrupting, arguing, or dismissing the feedback. Additionally, take some time to process and evaluate the feedback after receiving it. Identify the key points and areas for improvement. Recognize your strengths and achievements. Assess the validity and relevance of the feedback. Consider the giver's perspective and intention. Accept the feedback without taking it personally. Based on the feedback, decide what actions you need to take to improve your performance or behavior. Set specific and measurable goals and action plans. Seek support and guidance if needed. Implement your actions and monitor your progress. Lastly, share your results and feedback with the giver.

5 How to practice mindful feedback?

Practicing mindful feedback consistently is key for both yourself and others. To begin, create a feedback culture by setting norms and expectations, providing training, and rewarding feedback that is mindful, timely, and relevant. Additionally, seek feedback from others on your performance, behavior, and goals. Appreciate the feedback you receive and use it to improve yourself and your work. Lastly, offer constructive feedback to others on their performance, behavior, and goals. Adapt your feedback to their needs and preferences and use it to support them and their work.

Feedback is an important tool for learning, growing, connecting, collaborating with others, building trust, enhancing relationships, improving performance, and promoting well-being. When feedback is valued and respected by all parties involved, a culture of mindfulness can be created.

6 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?