Feedback is not evil! Yes, it is difficult, but so are the other things you don't practice and dread doing. Taxes, ultramarathons, pole vaulting, and speaking in a different language come to mind. When feedback (or feedforward) is done correctly and continuously, it's an incredible gift that can help us collectively move forward.

How do you get better at giving and receiving feedback?

As the receiver:

1. Ask for specific feedback

2. Help lead the feedback giver “In order to do this better next time, what do you think I could realistically try?”

3. Remember, feedback is a gift, not a chore

4. ALWAYS say, “Thank you!”

As the giver:

1. Remember, it is not about YOU!

2. Ask the receiver if they desire feedback on something specific (sometimes it’s both unwanted and they are unable to hear it)

3. Frame it around specific behaviors observed

4. ALWAYS say, “Thank you!”

Want to get more comfortable with giving and receiving feedback? Join Theresa Ward and Shelton Davis on October 28th at 11am ET for their practice session on Empathetic Feedback!