Leading by learning how to solicit and receive feedback
Leaders know they should give feedback but it is often avoided because it makes them feel uncomfortable. It brings up anxiety, fear, or criticism in many people. Think of feedback as sharing observations on work performance and behaviors. It can be positive or negative feedback, but if you view it as an opportunity to reward and praise good work or suggest improvements in a constructive way for the future, it can be an overall rewarding experience.
A key to soliciting and receiving feedback is learning how to listen and ask questions.
We talked about listening earlier in the book when we discussed public speaking. Listening is also key to leadership and feedback. And again, as we have said before in this book, you are responsible for your relationship with your management and, specifically, with your manager. You can lead this relationship with your management by asking questions and listening to the answers. This will provide...