Receive Feedback Graciously

Accountability is delivering on a commitment and owning the plan and steps to get there. It’s taking on the personal responsibility for an outcome, not just a set of tasks. It’s taking initiative with thoughtful, strategic follow-through. 

Part of building a culture of accountability is encouraging open dialogue and a free flow of feedback within the team, with the understanding that it will be supportive and beneficial to colleagues to problem-solve, collaborate, or address challenges. I see receiving feedback as a gift that helps me grow and sharpen my skills and impact. 

Leaders often have opportunities to share constructive feedback consistently to support team growth and build trust. Leaders also need to be open to receiving feedback, not just giving it.  If we don’t ask for or stay open to feedback from our team, how will we know the best way to be more effective or supportive? Here are 3 questions to ask to encourage team feedback:

“What is one thing I can do to better support you?”     

“How may I help you to be successful in your role?”

“What is one area that I can help or support you to grow?”

Once you ask the question, sit back and graciously receive the gift.  Ask clarifying questions to better understand, if needed. Remember, they're giving you a gift, so make sure you say "Thank you!" then follow up with, "This is so helpful. Is there anything else you think I should know?"

Assure your team that you won't get defensive when they give you feedback. Giving feedback to the leader doesn't come naturally to most people, so getting honest feedback from your team members may be difficult at first. They may fear being the messenger bearing bad news, so they hesitate to be honest. But if you open the door for them, you may learn many valuable nuggets of truth and areas where you can grow as a leader.

Check back in periodically with this colleague to ensure the supportive manner they specifically requested has improved. Circle back asking, “You shared with me (fill in the blank . I have been actively doing ___(fill in blank)_. Has this been helpful/made a difference/supportive? Is there anything further that I can do to be more successful in supporting you?”

Growing is a never-ending mission. Keep growing and going, leaders!