Say More About That

4Feedback

Just about everyone I know gets a little nervy about feedback. Some folks don't know how to take it, some don't know how to give it, and others are good at one or the other. Although the word feedback does not carry the same level of negativity as bias or privilege, some folks see it as a challenge; I'd like to offer another perspective. Feedback, whether given or received, is an opportunity. Giving feedback is an opportunity for you to help someone learn what they are doing well or where they might have an opportunity to improve. Done well, giving feedback can also build trust, because people may grow to value knowing someone will be honest with them. Receiving feedback is an opportunity to learn what is going well and where we might be displaying some bias or have an opportunity to grow. Just look at how many times opportunity is in this paragraph. Feedback isn't bad.

Let me be clear; I do understand why folks struggle with feedback. Receiving feedback can make us feel nervous about what will be said, sometimes we don't really value or trust the source of the feedback, and occasionally the feedback might catch us off guard. Giving feedback makes folks nervous because no one is ever quite sure how someone might react to it, especially if it is not good. People also are unsure what to say when giving feedback and can be concerned that tough feedback might ruin the relationship. All of these are valid concerns. The good news is, all of them can be overcome with a shift ...