Yes - everybody wants praise as feedback and therefore, most people never ask for feedback in case it turns out to be negative. Another reason why feedback is rarely asked of others is that many people will fear retaliation or risk losing a good relationship because of honest feedback. Emotions come into play and suddenly a professional situation becomes personal.
The reality is that it is awkward to give and receive honest feedback. You can be a great communicator to your team but not realize you’ve been stifling their creativity or confidence all along because you simply monopolize the conversation with your own ideas or don’t ask for the input of others – or worse yet, others fear giving their honest option.
How you react to feedback is really important. You are less likely to receive feedback in the future from anyone once word gets out that you become angry or take feedback too personally. So be genuinely thankful when you receive honest feedback. You don’t have to act on all the suggestions you receive, and you don’t have to agree with the feedback, but do keep an open mind.
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