🏔️ LxI #005: Five Profound Feedback Mistakes Everyone (From Intern To Executive) Should Avoid In Their Career

Read Time: 4 mins

Over the years, I’ve asked dozens of business leaders one simple question:

“What feedback mistake will you never make again?”

What I ended up walking away with was a messy notepad full of notes, a completely new way of seeing development conversations, and 5 profound mistakes everyone (from intern to executive) should avoid in their career.

Let’s dive in:

Mistake #1: Not Preparing Feedback in Advance

Too often, leaders choose to “wing it”.

They start giving feedback too soon. They think they can remember everything they want to discuss. Only to end up fumbling and hurting the relationship.

Instead, leaders should be focused on preparing feedback ahead of time.

This is what ends up leading to clear discussions, reduced stress, and better relationships.

Mistake #2: Using The Wrong Tone

A good leader can be supportive when delivering tough feedback.

A bad leader can tear somebody down with just a few words.

But a legendary leader will focus on long-term growth by communicating with empathy, understanding and a growth-mindset.

Don’t get it confused: being supportive is good, but it’s far from what makes the most difference.

How you say somethings is just as important as what you’re saying.

Mistake #3: Being Vague

Until you’ve become completely clear on what you are trying to say, don’t take your eye off the ball.

This quote reminds me that people will hear what they want to hear unless we are 100% clear with our feedback.

Mistake #4: Talking More Than You Listen

Traditional wisdom says if you want someone to change, tell them what they need to do.

But that’s only true if you don’t do two things correctly:

• Listen to what they have to say

• Understand their perspective

Then, giving advice works great.

Mistake #5: Not Having a Forward Focus

We all think we can “let bygones be bygones”.

We all think we have unlimited trust built with others.

We all think we are immune to being misunderstood .

But the truth is, we’re not.

Which is why it’s much better to operate from first principles, and have a forward focus from the very beginning.

🗞 In the news:

• Let’s Talk About Connection

• How to Onboard Your New Boss

• What is Leadership?

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