Feedback and Testimonial requests are entirely different; confusing the two will only lead to disappointment

Massive topic: over the years I have found people are quick to judge out of hand based on their own insecurities. By projecting authority over others, berating people and putting them down, they somehow feel superior, giving them a sense of worth albeit at the detriment of people they are shaming. Let it go and leave ‘em to it. Like the “fun police” on this platform. The self-righteous, pompous people who spend their entire day reading posts only to ‘call out’ the author for a spelling mistake or typo. I am not sure whether or not it is a cultural thing, but I feel that when we ask people for feedback, they are scratching their heads to find anything they did not like or a negative remark they can make. My key advise is this; if you ask a client to give you a “testimonial”, you are basically requesting that they write something positive about you and/or your business (preferably both!). The same applies for a “review”. It is a request for the client to write something complimentary. The issue is, when one requests feedback, expecting a testimonial, and are horrified when they do not get a 5* rating. That is not how feedback works. On the other hand, feedback should not be a tool or a welcomed opportunity to be personally attacking or venomous. There is no such thing as “good” or “bad” feedback. All feedback is good. Do not like some of the comments coming back, as long as it is constructive criticism, opposed to abuse, suck it up. Of course, I want people to say I am the dog’s bo**ocks and my services are second to none. Don’t we all? But, in order to grow, develop and frankly be better business professionals, providing superior products and services, all feedback should be taken on the chin and seen as a learning tool. Remember this, then I will shut up!, you have received feedback from people that care about you enough to take the time to provide it.