I recently took part in an insightful and empowering Dare to Lead workshop with my Design Leadership Team at Intuit (2021). One of the most useful tools provided by our executive coach, Aiko Bethea, was a checklist to confirm that you're in the right head and heart space for meaningful feedback conversations.
I love the phrase "feedback is a gift". In fact, I use it often both to set expectations to provide it often within the teams I lead, and to help lessen anxiety before asking for candid input from others. Until recently, however, I wasn't equipped with a framework to ensure that I am ready to package feedback in a way that feels like a gift to others. Here it is, verbatim, from the amazing folks at Dare to Lead.
I love the phrase "feedback is a gift". In fact, I use it often both to set expectations to provide it often within the teams I lead, and to help lessen anxiety before asking for candid input from others. Until recently, however, I wasn't equipped with a framework to ensure that I am ready to package feedback in a way that feels like a gift to others. Here it is, verbatim, from the amazing folks at Dare to Lead.
I know that I'm ready to give feedback when:
☑️ I'm ready to sit next to you rather than across from you.
☑️ I'm willing to put the problem in front of us rather than between us.
☑️ I'm ready to listen, ask questions, and accept that I may not fully understand the issue.
☑️ I'm ready to acknowledge what you do well instead of picking apart your mistakes.
☑️ I recognize your strengths and how you can use them to address your challenges.
☑️ I can hold you accountable without shaming or blaming.
☑️ I am open to owning my part
☑️. I can genuinely thank you for your efforts rather than criticize you for your failings.
☑️ I can talk about how resolving these challenges will lead to growth and opportunity.
☑️ I can model the vulnerability and openness that I expect to see from you.