Accepting negative feedback can be a challenge. Very often, our emotions kick in and we tune out the message, even if it contains good information or advice.
In this week’s edition of our weekly productivity series, you’ll learn tips for receiving feedback and how you can turn a bad situation into an opportunity for personal growth and advancement.
What Productivity Questions Does This Video Answer?
- What are tips for accepting negative feedback?
- How to handle negative feedback?
- How to not get defensive from negative feedback?
- What can you do to make negative feedback a positive experience?
Video Transcript for Accepting Negative Feedback
Do you have a fear of negative feedback. Let’s face it, when it comes to feedback, we have no trouble with the good stuff. It’s the negative feedback where we can get upset and bad things can happen. Sometimes you miss out on some good information.
So what should you do? Here’s a good process that can work. I want you to listen to the negative feedback and let the other person get through what they’re trying to tell you. Don’t jump into the conversation don’t interrupt, don’t get emotional. Simply listen to the information.
If it’s a situation where you’re not really sure what you could have done better, ask the other person, “Hey, if this was happening to you what would you have done?”
Occasionally, the other person may admit, “Gee, I don’t know,” or, ”You were in a no-win situation.”
It’s important to make sure that you’re actively listening to the other person. They may be thinking, “Gee, you just messed up but your but at least you’re trying to improve.” So this is a good way to demonstrate that.
Final thing to keep in mind, feedback is not a tattoo. It won’t be with you for life. Everyone is going to make mistakes. Everyone can improve on the job. Listen to the information that’s coming to you. Remember, someone is giving it to you like a gift. How do you accept it, well that can determine a lot of your career success.
About Ken Okel
As a motivational speaker, Ken Okel works with leaders and organizations to boost productivity, performance, and profits. At conferences, conventions, and company meetings, he engages audiences with new ways to maximize their time at work. To see a sample of his keynote and workshop presentations, visit his video page.