Receive Feedback

The way you receive feedback can significantly impact its value and your professional development.

• Shifts the focus from giving feedback to receiving it effectively, acknowledging the common tendency to become defensive when receiving criticism.

• Seeking Context and Specificity: Encourages seeking clarification and specific examples when receiving feedback to ensure accurate understanding and targeted improvement.

🔑 Key Principles

Assume Positive Intent

Feedback, even when delivered poorly, often stems from good intentions. Approach feedback with the assumption that the giver wants to help you improve, not to criticize or undermine you. This mindset shift allows you to focus on the message rather than getting defensive about the delivery.

Recognize Feedback as a Gift

Embrace feedback as a valuable opportunity for growth. While it might be challenging to hear, honest feedback provides a unique perspective that can illuminate blind spots and accelerate your development. Cultivate an attitude of gratitude for those who take the time and effort to offer their insights.

Turn Defensiveness into Curiosity

Feeling defensive is natural, but reacting impulsively can hinder your understanding of the feedback. Instead of immediately refuting or explaining, channel your energy into curiosity. Ask clarifying questions to gain deeper insights into the giver's perspective. This demonstrates a willingness to learn and helps you extract maximum value from the feedback.

Seek Clarification and Examples

Feedback is most valuable when it is specific and actionable. Don't hesitate to ask for concrete examples or specific situations where the observed behavior occurred. Understanding the context makes the feedback more tangible and helps you identify areas for improvement.

Focus on Processing, Not Analyzing

Instead of immediately analysing the feedback during the conversation, it's more effective to focus on actively listening and absorbing the information. Later, you can reflect on the feedback, analyse its implications, and determine appropriate actions. This separation allows for clearer thinking and reduces the risk of reactive responses.

💡 Practical Tips for Navigating Feedback Conversations

Be Proactive

When proactively seeking feedback, explicitly state your desire for direct, honest input. Let the giver know that you value their opinion and are eager to learn from their perspective. This encourages them to speak candidly and reduces the likelihood of sugarcoating.

Make it Easy for the Giver

The importance of making it easy for managers and colleagues to provide feedback. Be specific about the type of feedback you're looking for and offer concrete examples of your work for them to react to. This clarity minimises their cognitive load and maximises the relevance of their feedback.

React Positively

Even when the feedback is challenging, respond with a positive attitude and express your appreciation for their input. This reinforces their willingness to offer feedback in the future and strengthens your working relationship.

Follow Up

If the feedback prompts specific actions, demonstrate your commitment to improvement by outlining your plan and following up with the giver. This shows that you value their feedback and are taking it seriously.

---

In Short

Approach feedback with an open mind by assuming positive intent, seeking specifics, showing gratitude, and responding with curiosity rather than defensiveness to maximise its impact on your growth