Taking feedback is an underrated skill that many seem to take for granted. I see it at work and social media all the time: someone gives constructive feedback, and instead of trying to understand or take the feedback, we get defensive.
I made a thread on Twitter over the weekend, after a particular tweet got my interest. One of my “influencer” friends instantly sent me a direct message, saying that the way I was using quotes and replies was not optimal, given that I have such few followers. He said do so and so, you will see more traction. My first instinct was to explain my actions. Then I reasoned, why fight this when I haven’t even tried the suggestion? I simply said oh I didn’t know. Let me try your suggestion. The results were just as he predicted.
My perception on feedback changed in 2012 when my senior at Wonderland Professional Services (WPS) at the time, Aruwa Yusuf Isah made one of the best presentations on Transfer Pricing I’ve witnessed. During the presentation, our partner interjected somewhat angrily by pointing out a vital point Isah had missed. Now most people in similar situations get defensive. Isah accepted it like a pro, and even went on to spend a few minutes explaining how his presentation would have been much better, if he did not miss that part. I remember thinking to myself, this is absolute class! Of course, he got an astounding commendation after the presentation – which is difficult to get from the partner in question. I literally replay that moment anytime someone gives me feedback.
Contrary to what most people think, taking feedback graciously actually projects you as confident because it shows that you are self-aware enough to understand when you might have misstepped, and knowledgeable enough to acknowledge your lapses.
Lets take feedback like the bosses that we are. Have a lovely week friends.
Excellent piece. This is very enlightenng. Thanks.