Factor Trust into Feedback

Now more than ever, with significant staffing cuts – trust falls under scrutiny from all perspectives.

Times are unsteady and unstable for many in the workforce, which increases the uncomfortable need to address mistrust and distrust - with priority.?

Due to the increasing pace of business along with the evolution of technology, communications are shortened as much as possible.? Acronyms are a prime example, with 1:many possibilities. Fragmented thoughts are conveyed as well as truncated messages shared. In disputes, conflict, and simple misunderstandings, it is common to discover the same language isn’t being relayed within a conversation and certainly within communications.

An internet search of [feedback is a gift quote], returned 103M results in .35 seconds.? Let’s pluck two quotes out of the mix for consideration.

“Feedback is a gift” ~ Warren Buffet

&

“Feedback is a gift only when it comes from a person who has earned your trust.”? ~ Gary Chapman

It is safe to say that words of validation, encouragement, and constructive criticism are best received from someone we trust.?

Let’s flip the coin on that now, shall we?

Interestingly enough, the opposite of gift is penalty.

When feedback is received from someone we do not trust, the perception of penalty rises and the message becomes more to consume than mere words spoken or read.? Motive and more enter the exercise of scrutiny and therefore, should become a part of the conversation(s).

Trust and Truth Matter

Ideally, feedback is more fact over opinion with some personal perspective. ?

On occasion, I have found myself coaching individuals away from the bad habit of inserting selfish or bias desires within the positioning of observation and interpretation. It is just as important, if not more, for the individual providing feedback to consider who they were in the moment and how they participated.? Let's not overlook the antics of bullies and manipulators. In other words, own how you show up. Furthermore, say what you mean, mean what you say and accept accountability for the manner of which messages are relayed.

When giving and receiving feedback, everyone should be encouraged to factor trust into the conversations.? Trust embraces change, enhances morale, increases productivity, reduces stress, promotes ethical decisions, is essential to collaboration as well as teamwork and necessary for high performance.

Are you speaking the same language? Are you factoring trust into feedback conversations?? If not, why not and what needs to change?