What do you do if your team members are resistant to constructive feedback?

1 Understand Why

Understanding the root cause of resistance is the first step in addressing it. People may resist feedback due to past negative experiences, misunderstanding the intent, or feeling that their expertise is being challenged. As a landscape architect, it's important to recognize these underlying issues and approach the situation with empathy. By demonstrating that you value their contributions and that the feedback is aimed at collective improvement, you can start to lower defenses and open up a dialogue for growth.

2 Create Trust

Creating a foundation of trust is imperative when dealing with resistance to feedback. Trust ensures that your team members feel safe and understand that the feedback is for their benefit and the project's success. Establish this trust by being consistent in your communication, showing appreciation for their hard work, and being transparent about your intentions. In the collaborative world of landscape architecture, trust can turn resistance into receptiveness.

3 Feedback Approach

The way you deliver feedback can significantly impact how it's received. To reduce resistance, it's crucial to present your feedback in a constructive, non-confrontational manner. Focus on specific behaviors or outcomes rather than personal attributes, and use clear examples from the project at hand. In landscape architecture, where projects are often complex and multifaceted, precise and actionable feedback can guide your team to better results without causing defensiveness.

4 Encourage Dialogue

Encouraging open dialogue is a powerful tool in overcoming resistance to feedback. Invite your team members to share their perspectives and concerns, and listen actively to what they have to say. This two-way communication not only helps in understanding their point of view but also demonstrates that you value their input. In landscape architecture, where design solutions often evolve through collaboration, such dialogues can lead to innovative ideas and stronger team cohesion.

5 Offer Support

Offering support to your team members can alleviate the fear of negative consequences often associated with receiving feedback. Assure them that the purpose of feedback is to support their professional growth and improve project outcomes. In the context of landscape architecture, this might include providing additional resources, training, or time to implement changes. This approach reinforces the message that feedback is not punitive but rather a stepping stone to excellence.

6 Follow Up

Following up after providing feedback is crucial to ensure that it has been understood and acted upon. This doesn't mean micromanaging every aspect of your team's work but rather checking in periodically to offer further guidance and acknowledge progress. In landscape architecture, where projects can span months or even years, regular follow-ups help maintain momentum and show your team that you're invested in their continuous improvement.

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?