HOW TO RECEIVE FEEDBACK…ESPECIALLY WHEN YOU DON’T AGREE WITH IT!
Take the Guesswork out of Receiving Feedback- Four Simple Steps
Listen. Resist the urge to jump in to add commentary. REALLY listen to the feedback.
Omit Emotion. Pretend you are a third party who does not know either side of this conversation. Listen for content to fully understand the feedback.
Seek Truth. From what was shared, be self-aware enough to be honest- what is true? No one is perfect and this is a way to determine where you can improve. Who doesn’t want to improve and grow?
Be Gracious. Feedback shared with us, gives us an opportunity. For that alone, be gracious. Even when you may not agree with the feedback or you don’t believe it to be true- be gracious. This shows maturity and leadership; skills that still position you for success.
If you are an overachiever, Step 5 might be follow up with questions. You do not need to have all the answers/questions/responses to feedback on the spot. Ask for an opportunity to follow up at a later date that affords you time to process and create questions to fully understand the feedback.
Connect with Meg
This is an excerpt from Meg’s new book, “Put Your Big Girl Pants On…and Other Power Moves to Increase Influence,” now available for purchase on BookBaby and Amazon.
Meg Bucaro is a communication strategist and college adjunct faculty who is passionate about positioning women for success by teaching them powerful communication behaviors. For more information on how to increase your credibility, likeability and influence, schedule a chat with Meg. or follow Meg Bucaro Communications on Instagram or Linkedin.
