The Power of Feedback

The other day, I was sitting in a cafe when I overheard a conversation between two colleagues, one of whom was giving feedback to the other.

The feedback was delivered in a fair, considerate, and polite manner. It was constructive, offering specific examples of how improvements could enhance opportunities for business growth. Despite the thoughtful approach, the feedback was not well received. It was apparent that the recipient was not open to hearing it. In such moments, I often refer to the phenomenon as having "earlids" an unwillingness to truly listen.

The conversation went something like this: "There are changes happening in digital marketing right now that I believe we can leverage to drive successful growth for our business. I think you would be excellent at exploring the potential value these changes could bring." The recipient’s response was dismissive: "I know how to do marketing; I’ve been doing it for 20 years." This reply shut down any opportunity for a productive discussion.

Feedback, when thoughtfully given, is one of the most valuable gifts a colleague can offer. It often reflects their investment in your personal and professional growth. Constructive feedback requires time and effort to structure and deliver effectively, making it an act of generosity. When we learn to accept feedback graciously, we unlock vast opportunities for growth and learning. Moreover, if similar feedback arises from multiple sources, it’s worth paying attention to, there’s likely something significant to be gained from it.

Developing the skill to receive feedback is transformative. Here are some key practices to help:

1. Actively listen: Approach feedback with curiosity. Ask questions to understand it better and seek clarification where needed.

2. Take time to reflect: Give yourself the space to sit with the feedback. Different people process information at different speeds; personally, I find that sleeping on it helps me fully appreciate its value.

3. Seek additional perspectives: Ask others if they share similar thoughts or insights. A broader perspective can deepen your understanding.

4. Keep your “earlids” open: Stay receptive, even when the feedback is challenging to hear.

Listening to and considering feedback is not always easy, but it’s a skill that can profoundly enhance both personal and professional growth. How do you approach feedback? If you’re interested in developing stronger communication and feedback skills, I highly recommend the book Crucial Conversations: Tools for Talking When Stakes Are High. It provides valuable insights into navigating challenging discussions effectively. Embracing feedback with an open mind and a willingness to learn demonstrates humility and fosters stronger connections with those around us. Remember, growth begins when we allow ourselves to hear what others have to say.