Let’s walk through a familiar scenario. Your boss calls you into her office and asks you to sit down. “You’re doing really great work,” she says. “Your project plans are always on time and you’ve yet to abuse our unlimited vacation policy.”
So far so good. But you can already sense what comes next. After a brief pause she continues, “BUT you’ve yet to win us any new business.”
When feedback is delivered incorrectly it’s useless. Recipients leave feeling attacked, not supported. Which is a shame because it’s a vital tool for self-improvement. So, we sat down with Lee to create a short series on how to give and receive feedback.
Ep32: Feedback Is A Gift
Key Takeaways
- By giving someone feedback you are gifting them with the ability to improve
- Feedback does not always have to be negative
- Sometimes the tone of voice or the language chosen, makes feedback difficult to absorb
Ep33: How To Not Give Critical Feedback
Key Takeaways
- Feedback surrounding a work product should be quick and specific so the person can finish the job
- Positive feedback around soft skills can come immediately
- Negative feedback around soft skills can come with a calendar invite and a little sit down chat a couple days later
- Don’t give critical feedback when you’re emotional
Ep34: Be Specific, Be Positive
Key Takeaways
- There’s critical feedback and amplification feedback – you should provide specific examples in order for either to be beneficial
- Try to remain as positive as possible when you’re offering critical feedback
- Replace “but” with “and” when you’re offering critical feedback
- Managers, adjust your feedback delivery to fit the specific personality type that will be receiving it
Ep35: How to Receive Critical Feedback
Key Takeaways
- It’s important to take a moment and reflect on what you’ve learned
- Ask for tangible examples
- It’s fine to not agree with every piece of feedback you’re being given later
- If you disagree about a piece of feedback, connect with the person at a later date and discuss your differing opinions on the matter