Unlock your teams potential -> The raw, honest truth about Feedback

Are You a Feedback Rockstar...or a Roadblock?

Let's be honest and straightforward. Feedback isn't just some HR buzzword... No, it's the lifeblood of growth, the rocket fuel for high performance, and the key to unlocking your team's full potential.

But here's the kicker : most people suck at giving and receiving it.

As a Senior Leadership Partner, I've seen the incredible power of well-delivered feedback, and the devastating consequences of feedback gone wrong. I've seen it transform struggling employees into top performers, and I've seen it crush morale, stifle innovation, and drive talented people out the door.

My Biggest Leadership Wake-Up Call ?

I thought I was a pretty decent leader, until I found out, in a 360° feedback session, what my team really thought about my leadership style. It wasn't about them, It was about me. And it was not all pink, all wonderful. They struggled with my communication, my decision-making, and how I wasn't including their input. It was a punch to the gut, but it was the best damn thing that ever happened to my career.

Why? Because it was real. It was raw. It was honest. And it forced me to confront my shortcomings head-on. I felt supported and knew I could act. I could change things for the better.

The Dark Side : When Feedback Kills Dreams

Contrast that with another experience, early in my career. I remember one leader who would simply pat me on the back and say "Good job!"... and that was it. No specifics. No context. No real connection. It left me feeling empty, like my work didn't matter. It was like pouring water into a leaky bucket. I was going through the motions, but I wasn't growing, and I wasn't engaged.

The Secret Sauce: The Feedback That Transforms

So, what's the difference between feedback that inspires and feedback that kills?

It comes down to a few key ingredients I would resume as :

1. Radical Honesty: Sugarcoating helps no one. Be direct, be truthful, and don't be afraid to have tough conversations.
2. Laser-Like Specificity: "Good job!" is garbage. Yes you read it right -> Tell people exactly what they did well (or what they need to improve) and why it matters.
3. Meaningful Connection: Tie feedback to the employee's goals (if needed, to achieve a goal, you need to value it, such as precision, performance, behaviors). This is how you tie feedback to company values (if any). If you wish, you can tie the team's objectives.
4. Impeccable Timing: Don't wait months to deliver feedback. The sooner, the better.
5. A Foundation of Trust: Create a safe space where people feel comfortable being vulnerable and honest.
6. The Power of "Why": Explain the "why" behind your decisions. Help your team connect the dots and understand the bigger picture.

Actionable Steps --> Unleash Your Inner Feedback Guru

• Ask for feedback regularly: Lead by example and show that you're open to receiving feedback yourself.
• Listen more than you talk: Truly hear what people are saying, without interrupting or judging.
• Focus on behavior, not personality: Frame your feedback in terms of actions and behaviors, not personal traits.
• Offer support and guidance: Don't just point out problems –-> help people find solutions.
• Celebrate progress: Acknowledge and reward improvements, no matter how small.

Feedback is a Gift, Not a Weapon

Feedback is not about criticism or control. It's about growth and empowerment. When done right, it can transform individuals, teams, and entire organizations. So, embrace the power of feedback, and become the leader your team deserves!

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