Giving and Accepting Feedback Makes Us More Effective

Last week we kicked off what will become a series of information about 360 feedback.

We believe we all know that giving and receiving feedback are vital for professional and personal growth, and both can be challenging at times.

Why? We don’t always feel comfortable and confident, but it can be eye opening.

When giving feedback:

• Are you well prepared before providing feedback?
• Have you ever been thanked for the feedback you shared?
• Have you ever provided feedback that was totally rejected?
• Do past encounters/baggage impact how you deliver the feedback?
• Do you feel differing styles/personalities/relationships impact how readily feedback is accepted?
• Do you avoid the halo effect (which is where you only focus on the positive)?

Obtaining feedback:

• Do you regularly request feedback?
• Do you solicit feedback only from those you feel will be candid and honoring?
• What about from those you may have a complicated relationship with?
• Have you had any “a-ha” moments with feedback that was provided to you?
• Have you found that where you rated yourself low, others rated you high?
• Do you take sufficient time to process the feedback before choosing to act on it or discard it?

Giving and receiving feedback is essential and can be eye opening. It helps us understand the perceptions of others for how we show up and how they view our strengths as well as areas for improvement, all which help increase levels of effectiveness.

Are you consistent about giving and receiving feedback?