Lead Like it Matters...Because it Does: Practical Leadership Tools to Inspire and Engage Your People and Create Great Results

Chapter 11

CONSTRUCTIVE FEEDBACK

That which we persist in doing becomes easier—not that the nature of the task has changed, but our ability to do has increased.

—RALPH WALDO EMERSON

Let’s say your listening skills are serving you well, and still, those inevitable tough conversations are a concern. Before we get immersed in constructive feedback, I would like you to take out your notebook and answer the three questions in Exercise 17 without thinking too hard; just respond from your gut.

Exercise 17

  1. What are all the thoughts, words, and emotions that you have when you hear the word feedback?

  2. Think about someone with whom you want or need to share some challenging or perhaps difficult information regarding his or her behavior or actions. ...