The Art of Receiving Feedback: Turning Criticism into Growth"

Let's Turn the Tables: How Do You Perceive Feedback??

In the last few newsletters, I’ve shared tools and strategies for giving feedback. But today, I’d like you to look within.?

Personally, I used to dread being called into "the principal's office" to receive feedback, criticism, or coaching. It was hard and felt like a blow to my ego.?

It took me some time to change my mindset and attitude. I remember a time when my "inner circle” pointed out how my facial expressions revealed my opinions about others' ideas (I rolled my eyes).?

To address this, I created a process where, when specific individuals had comments or ideas, my “inner circle” would give a prearranged signal if they noticed my negative facial expressions or body language, such as picking up a pencil. This strategy worked like a charm, but it was exhausting.?

What about you? Do your staff know when you disapprove of a team member? Do you show favoritism to a few? If someone pointed this out to you, would you use it as a moment for self-awareness or shut it down with the excuse that you don’t show favoritism??

The truth is, what’s in our blind spot is often clear and visible to others.?

Next time a staff member makes a comment that internally makes you roll your eyes, instead of shutting it down, observe your behavior. Consider their perspective—perhaps they are right, and you have some work to do.?

Strategies for Managing and Benefiting from Feedback?

Create a Feedback Culture:?

• Encourage regular feedback sessions where both positive and constructive feedback are shared openly.?
• Example: Schedule bi-weekly or monthly team meetings dedicated to feedback where everyone can share their thoughts in a safe, structured environment. I know it would be difficult, but it can support your projects and create an environment of trust and respect.?
• It would help if you created rules and boundaries because people are people, and no one likes to be embarrassed in front of their peers. Create a strategy and tweak it as you go.?

Use a Feedback Journal:?

• Maintain a journal where you document the feedback you receive, your initial reactions, and the steps you take to address it. This will help your focus.?
• Example: After receiving feedback, write down what was said, how it made you feel, and what actions you plan to take.?

Establish a Signal System:?

• Similar to my process, create a discreet signal system with trusted colleagues to alert you to non-verbal cues that may be perceived negatively.?
• Example: Agree on signals like tapping a pen or touching an earlobe to indicate when you’re displaying negative body language. I gave my inner circle a yellow, green and red pencil and they will use it accordingly.?

Practice Active Listening:?

• Focus on truly listening to the feedback without interrupting or defending yourself. Paraphrase what you’ve heard to ensure understanding.?
• Example: If someone says, "Your emails can sometimes be unclear," respond with, "So you feel that my emails could be more concise and straightforward?"?

Seek Clarification:?

• If feedback is vague, ask for specific examples and suggestions for improvement.?
• Example: "Can you give me an example of a recent email that was unclear and how I might improve it?"?

Set Improvement Goals:?

• Use the feedback to set specific, actionable goals for self-improvement and track your progress.?
• Example: If feedback indicates you need to improve time management, set a goal to prioritize tasks and review your progress weekly.?

Request Follow-Up Feedback:?

• After implementing changes based on feedback, ask for follow-up feedback to gauge your progress and continue improving.?
• Example: "I’ve been working on making my emails clearer. Have you noticed any improvement?"?

By incorporating these strategies, you can turn feedback into a powerful tool for personal and professional growth.?

?Remember, the goal is not just to hear feedback but to use it constructively to become a better leader.?

I would love for you to share which strategies you’ll use. I can’t wait.?

You can write to me directly or comment below.?

Blessings?