Recap Blog: PTT Feedback Panel

To follow up from Denola Burton’s Feedback Torch Talk in early June, our Developing Leaders and Developing Professionals recently held a panel discussion filled with practical tips and ways to give and receive feedback.

Here are 5 quick takeaways from the session to integrate into your practice of giving and receiving feedback:

1.Giving feedback? Read the room (even if it’s a virtual room!).

Ask the receiver how their day is going to gauge their mood.
Look for cues and body language to see if the receiver of the feedback seems open to receiving it.
Ask yourself three questions before reaching out to your audience:

- 1.) Who am I talking to?

- 2.) Why does this matter to them?

- 3.) Why is it relevant for them to know right now?
In virtual environments, pick up the phone and chat directly since emails and texts can be difficult to detect tones.

2. Looking to receive feedback? Get specific with your questions.

What exactly do you want to know? Consider SMAART goals and incorporate those into your ask.
What are your intentions and how can feedback help you grow into your next role? Here are a few examples:
- I’m interested in this _______position. What skills would you be looking for in this role?
- How could I do this task better?

3. In a new position/new company? Build rapport to help create a positive environment.

Show your interest in your peers as people and build positive relationships.
Ask questions! Build credibility and learn about the areas of opportunity in the company.
How is success measured on the team? Learning the ins and outs can help you be an engaged team member.

4. Play to others’ strengths to give constructive feedback.

Have you or your team taken any personality assessments such as Strengths Finder or Myers-Briggs? Leverage these assessments to help you understand your peers. For example, some people respond best to facts and data, while others respond better to empathy. Taking a specialized approach can help the receiver be more open to your feedback.

5. Rebecca, Amna and Nikki recommend these books to help improve your feedback skills: