Self-improvement requires honest critical feedback and the willingness to listen, consider then act upon it. Passing on or receiving praise is a pleasure. But how do you deal with critical feedback? What is the best way to approach this? How can you turn a negative situation into a positive experience?
Often the opportunity to make a helpful improvement is missed because of a punitive attitude coupled with a misguided mode of communication. This combination can create a blame culture. People begin to hide mistakes rather than deal with them and learn never to take risks as they might fail. Even the phrase 'I would like to give you some feedback' can be overwhelming if your previous experience has been poor.
In this episode of Bite-sized Coaching, certified coach Beverly Landais suggests three powerful questions to give or gain feedback that is frank, constructive and straightforward. It takes courage, yet with effort and an open mind, you will see the difference it can make in giving and receiving timely, practical and valuable feedback.