 Welcome to the December e-letter from Crystal Clear Consulting. We have lots of changes coming in the new year......new Associates, an updated website, and more opportunities to learn with us. Crystal Clear Consulting enables new leaders and leaders with changing roles to quickly maximize their effectiveness. Through coaching, team development and cohort development, Crystal Clear Consulting helps leaders address their current challenges, imagine new possibilities and create leadership practices that support their goals and vision. |
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The Gift That Keeps on Giving
It can be difficult to accept critical feedback about our communication style because we do not purposefully confuse or disrespect others. Yet it happens, and when it does, we are fortunate if we are given the gift of feedback.
If someone shares critical feedback with you, here are steps you can follow to turn it into “the gift that keeps on giving:”
Step one - Say thank you. Most of us are hesitant about giving critical feedback. Our discomfort, coupled with lack of practice, can result in rather inelegant presentations. When someone overcomes these hesitations, the most constructive response you can give is “thank you.” This is in appreciation for receiving information about your impact on others, thereby allowing you to make more informed decisions about how you act in the future. By gratefully acknowledging feedback, you give the gift of gratitude.
Step two - Do some research. Now that you have one perspective, it’s a good idea to gather others. Depending on the situation, a coach might be helpful in this process. Collect relevant perspectives from people whose opinions you value. By soliciting feedback from others, you give the gift of respect.
Step three - Share your intentions. If you decide to make changes, tell those around you. It is difficult to change behavior and even more difficult to change the perceptions caused by old behavior. Sharing your intentions has a true multiplier effect: it demonstrates a commitment to continuous learning; it makes others more likely to notice and appreciate your efforts; and it encourages others to have a similar appreciation for feedback. Sharing your intentions creates the gift of a learning community.
While all of the above occurs before actually practicing new behaviors, by responding to critical feedback in this manner, you change the conditions that created the critical feedback in the first place!
You can further encourage a culture of sharing constructive feedback by doing it yourself. Our article, “The Gourmet Chef’s Guide to Giving Feedback,” compares providing good feedback with preparing a gourmet meal. With practice, both lead to satisfying results.
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