What is your biggest challenge when it comes to giving and receiving feedback?
We always ask this question prior to the start of our Mastering Feedback workshops and this response took my by surprise:
“My team has bonded really well. I’m concerned that if I give feedback, it will mess up the culture that has been created.”
This is such a great insight and a valid concern.
As a coach, my first question would be, “Will you tell me more about what feedback means to you?”
My hunch is that there has not been a culture of feedback created in this workplace.
What is a culture of feedback and why do you need one?
A culture of feedback exists when:
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Everyone understands feedback is a tool for growth and development.
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People not only ask for feedback proactively, but they expect it.
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Feedback is not a “special occasion”, but something that happens regularly.
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Leaders model receiving feedback without taking it personally.
When a culture of feedback exists, a team’s culture and morale will not be shaken by feedback. In fact, individuals and the team as a whole, expect feedback. They view feedback as a tool to improve how they communicate and collaborate to make work more enjoyable, productive, innovative, and meaningful.