If you’re a sound tech then feedback is normally unwelcome, but always helpful in finding a trouble spot. If you’re a leader then the same is probably true for you. Good feedback or critical feedback (that’s what I call bad feedback because it sounds better), is usually uncomfortable to hear, accept and then respond.
That being said, feedback is an important part of leadership. We all have blindspots, and we need other people to be able to see them. The most courageous leaders will ask for feedback. Not because they love being criticized, but because they know they need it in order to grow. Here are 3 ways to get feedback from the people you lead.
Ask for it.
This is probably my favorite way to get feedback. It builds relational capital between you and the people you lead. It shows that you are vulnerable and that you want to hear from them. This type of feedback might not get you the most honest responses right away, but it will build the relationships you need to get the best feedback.
Give permission.
Most people assume they shouldn’t criticize their leaders methods, character or practices. I recommend at the very least to give two or three people who are close to you permission to speak into your life. These people should be people that you are leading and not people who already have permission to speak into your life (like people who lead you). If you’re really brave, give a wider circle of people permission to give you feedback.
Do something with it.
What do you do when you get feedback? I’d like to suggest that you have a system to process feedback. When you get feedback here are some basic steps to consider:
- Take it to prayer – dont react, don’t just brush it off; take it to God.
- Take it to a trusted person – ask someone who knows you well about the feedback and get their perspective.
- Action step – if the feedback was accurate, then take action and take a step that can be accomplished in the next 2-4 weeks
- Follow-up – If you had an action step; go back to the person and let them know what you have done – this is very honoring
Feedback can be an incredible way to advance your personal leadership gift. If feedback is avoided it can become a serious lid to growth.
