Here is another valuable Management Tip of the Day from Harvard Business Review. To sign up for a free subscription to any/all HBR newsletters, please click here.
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Do you get real value out of feedback? Sometimes leaders aren’t sure how to move from receiving it to using it to grow. To put your feedback into practice, take the following steps.
o First, talk it through with someone who is trustworthy, curious — and not in a position to evaluate your performance. Ask them to listen carefully and help you sort through your thoughts.
o Next, draft a development plan. It should include a summary of the feedback, questions you have about it, the steps you’ll take to improve, and the help you’ll need.
o Then share this plan with the people who gave you the feedback, and use the opportunity to ask your questions. Don’t debate or get defensive.
o Next, revise your plan with their new input, and include how you will measure your progress.
o Finally, start following your plan, and check in with your colleagues every few months.
With their help and your commitment, you can keep improving and advancing.
This tip is adapted from “6 Steps Leaders Can Take to Get the Most Out of Feedback,” by Jennifer Porter
Here’s a direct link to dozens of other Management Tips.