In Seth Godin’s latest blog post he talks about how we take a defensive posture in most interactions. I think this is especially so when we are receiving feedback. We know that the person giving feedback is passing judgement on us whether it is positive or otherwise.
If you enter a conversation looking for something to test, measure and ultimately change, it’s likely you’ll find it. That change makes you more competitive, and you continue to cycle past your competitors. On the other hand, if you enter a conversation concerned about maintaining the status quo, it’s likely that this is exactly what you’re going to do.
After you have given your latest Toastmasters speech, sat down and are now readying yourself for your feedback, what is your frame of mind? Are you looking for that nugget that will help you improve?
When discussing speech evaluations, most people discuss how the evaluator needs to say things a particular way. Use “I” language, be positive, etc. This is just one side of the equation though. The recipient needs to hear things a particular way and with the right mindset.
Next time you receive feedback, assume you are going to be given an amazing gift. Let me know how it goes.
Posted under evaluations
This post was written by john on August 11, 2009
