No man is an island. Alone. Stagnant. While it would be possible to go through life with the philosophy that “I don’t care what other people think,” it may be wiser to listen to the feedback of others. Only then can you make decisions that will help you move forward. ~ David M. Reile, Ph.D.
Photo by Amy Hirschi on Unsplash
FOCUS ON: Is the Feedback Clear and Motivating?
Giving transformational feedback and receiving difficult feedback takes time to learn. And leveraging feedback for the greatest benefit may be even harder. Use these tips from “Learning as Leadership” to ensure that you and your clients are moving forward.
FOR PRACTITIONERS: Overcoming the Yes-But Response
Your client presents an issue. You offer feedback. Your client responds “yes, but…” Sound familiar? If you are tired of hearing “Yes, but…” from your clients, preface your feedback with “do not respond to my next comment until we meet again in 3 days (or a week…). Why? “Brain studies have shown it can take up to 72 hours (3 days) for the mind to mull over a completely new idea before it accepts it might be possible and is willing to give it a chance.” Read more about resisting new ideas here.
GENDER IN THE WORKPLACE: Women CAN Negotiate Without Facing Negative Feedback
Here’s an interesting theory: women don’t negotiate for themselves because others react badly to it. “While it’s difficult to change societal outlooks and reactions, women can learn to negotiate in ways that have a more positive impact on the relationships and people around them.” Gain some tips for helping women negotiate (e.g., be demanding in a gentle way) without experiencing negative feedback by reading this Salary.com article.
JOB SEARCHING: Improving Hiring Practices
Helping a client get feedback after an interview doesn’t start after the client returns from an interview. Constructive feedback from career services practitioners through on-going relationships can help organizations improve hiring practices. Read here about sharing your perspectives with colleagues in human resources so that job searching is easier on clients.
QUOTES
There is no failure. Only feedback. - Robert Allen
From time to time I listen to what you are saying, just in case a response is needed. - Mason Cooley