How to help your feedback stick
I’ve been given feedback that made me want to scream or cry, feedback I rejected as ‘utter drivel’ and feedback I probably don’t even know about, because I just didn’t recognise it as feedback.
Feedback is loaded with emotion on both sides! Just the words ‘we need to talk’ or ‘can I give you feedback’ send plenty of people running.
So what to do to improve things?
TRY THIS...
1️⃣ Know your WHY
Know the ‘real’ reasons you’re giving feedback - be honest, are secretly trying to help yourself or them? More on this in June 2024 Inner Circle
2️⃣ Consider WHO
Know who it’s for. We all like things personalised, are you colour-flexible in your approach?
🔵 Are you fact dumping, or offering no facts at all? Some of us auto-reject fact free feedback, then again, too much is overwhelming.
🟢 Are you connecting to emotion? If you are disappointed or irritated, say so. Feeling creates depth, but not if you just offload it!
🟡 How does this fit into the bigger picture? Perspective matters, so offer yours, not as fact, but as an interpretation that opens up a conversation.
🔴 Is this interesting/optional or with purpose? Be clear what you need, expect or are recommending.
And yes, I run 3 hour workshops exclusively on this topic, with or without colours.
3️⃣ Prepare the HOW
There are MANY theories and techniques, so take your pick, but for goodness sake, own it and be ‘assertive’ about it.
4️⃣ Stick around for WHAT NOW
If it’s worth giving, it’s worth making sure it arrived.
Feedback is NOT a hit and run. It’s circular, and the response you get will help you understand who they are and how it went. It’s a relationship powerhouse of information.
SOMETHING TO PONDER...
Some of our best feedback comes from within - here are two questions that blew my mind.
Are your habits creating a better future or just maintaining your past?
Are you moving forwards or just getting better at going in circles?
SOMETHING FOR LATER...
Hand on heart… what feedback are you putting off for later? why is that? and how can I help?