By Sam Robinson
Aside from public speaking (I’m sure this applies to most of us!), one of the most common fears for leaders is in asking for honest feedback from peers and team members. This means we often use excuses to avoid doing it, or we half do it and don’t follow up. For example a leader says “Any feedback for me?” and is answered with “No all good”. We recommend you persist as people often don’t believe you really want to hear it unless you persist in this question and persist in different ways of asking it.
As a leader, receiving honest feedback is crucial for personal and professional growth. It allows you to identify areas for improvement and helps you to better understand the impact of your actions and decisions on others. However, seeking honest feedback can be intimidating and challenging, as it requires vulnerability and a willingness to listen to potentially negative feedback.
To seek honest feedback, it’s important to create a safe and trusting environment where individuals feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and opinions. This can be achieved through open communication, clear expectations, and a commitment to listen without judgment. It’s also important to be specific in your request for feedback, such as asking for specific examples of behaviour that may need improvement.
In addition to seeking feedback from those you work with, it’s also helpful to seek feedback from a diverse range of sources, including colleagues, mentors, and even anonymous surveys. This allows for a more well-rounded perspective and helps to mitigate any potential biases.
As a leader, it’s important to remember that feedback is a gift, and it’s up to you to make the most of it. By actively seeking and receiving honest feedback, you can continue to grow and improve as a leader.
At LKS Quaero, we understand the importance of creating a trusting environment for leaders to receive honest feedback. Our team of experienced coaches and consultants work with leaders to develop strategies for seeking and incorporating feedback into their leadership style. We believe that honest feedback is a key component of growth and success, and we are committed to supporting leaders in creating a culture of trust and openness.
At LKS Quaero, we support leaders to grow and improve. For more information, visit us at lksquaero.com or follow us on LinkedIn and Facebook.
