Why - and how - asking for constructive feedback to your colleagues could be the key to unlock your potential pleasantly
The importance of asking for feedback
What is your reaction when someone calls you aside and says, "Hey, can I give you some feedback?"
Take a few seconds to think 🤔 Chances are, you might think, "My heart is racing."
This happens because feedback is associated in our minds as a threat to our social status. It's a biological reaction conditioned by millions of years of evolution that made us sensitive to threats in our environment. However, times have changed, and threats are no longer as constant. We no longer risk being attacked by a lion at any moment, nor do we fear our tribe being invaded by a neighboring tribe in the dead of night.
Our brain, however, still functions in many ways as it did millions of years ago: we still eat more than we need, as if we won't find food for a few more days; our brain judges threats in fractions of a second, as if we're under constant danger; our body still gets confused by artificial lights, as if the sun were our only "clock."
👉 Therefore, we need to find ways to overcome this instinctive stress reaction when it comes to feedback. One tried and tested method is simple: ask for feedback. When we ask for feedback from others, we become more comfortable and open to what we're about to hear. Our stress levels decrease. Additionally, we also reduce the stress of the person giving the feedback, as they feel they are contributing to our growth. Thus, both parties benefit.
We have created a guide with tips on how to ask for constructive feedback from your colleagues. We hope you find it helpful!
A little bit of inspiration
Remember, when you ask for feedback, you're asking for it from one or more individuals. So, here are some ideas on how to ask for feedback in different contexts:
🟣 When you reach X months in the company:
"Hello team! Today marks X months for me in this amazing company. I would like to ask for your feedback on my contribution so far. What do you think I'm doing well, and where do you think I can improve? I genuinely appreciate your opinions.
🟣 When you finish a presentation, project, or delivery:
"Hello, everyone! We've just completed an important presentation/project/delivery. I would like to hear feedback from all of you on how I did. What are your thoughts on the results achieved and my skills throughout the process? I appreciate you sharing your insights."
🟣 When you want to understand what impressed people about your exceptional performance:
"Hi everyone! Recently, I received some compliments about a specific achievement. I would like to know what exactly impressed you and what I can learn from it. If you could share your observations and feedback, I would greatly appreciate it.
🟣 When you want to improve your management and people development skills:
"Hello, team! As a leader, I am constantly seeking ways to improve in managing and developing each of you. I would like to receive individual feedback on how I can be a better manager. Your suggestions and comments are highly valuable to me."
🟣 When you want to know how you're doing at work at any time, by asking for feedback from your manager:
"Hello, [manager's name]! I would like to set aside some time to get your feedback on my performance so far. I am committed to my work and want to make sure I am aligned with the company's expectations. Your perspective and guidance would be greatly appreciated."
Use these ideas as a starting point and adapt them to your specific context. Remember that feedback is a valuable opportunity for personal and professional growth.
And what can we conclude? 🤔
In a constantly evolving world, feedback emerges as a powerful tool to drive our personal and professional growth. By actively seeking feedback, we break the cycle of stress and transform this experience into an opportunity for learning and mutual development.
By adopting a receptive and humble posture, we open doors to valuable insights, build stronger relationships, and reach our fullest potential. Feedback becomes a true catalyst for positive change, guiding us towards excellence and lasting success.
Do you have any questions? #ChatWithUs 🚀 😄