4Hoteliers
SEARCH
SHARE THIS PAGE
NEWSLETTERS
CONTACT US
SUBMIT CONTENT
ADVERTISING
Feedback: Some People Can't Handle the Truth.
By John Boe
Wednesday, 6th October 2010
 
Are you the type of individual who values sincere feedback and welcomes constructive criticism from customers, associates, and family members?

Sometimes getting feedback can be an unpleasant experience, especially when it hasn't been requested! Without timely feedback, it's utterly impossible for a person to accurately identify his or her shortcomings, correct bad habits, and profit from mistakes.

I can't think of any professional athlete or top-producing sales rep who have become successful by avoiding critical feedback. In fact, even the greatest professional golfer in the world, Tiger Woods, understands the value of seeking out advice on club selection from his caddy before taking a swing at the ball.

Unsuccessful people often reject feedback and avoid taking personal responsibility for their actions. They have difficulty admitting weaknesses and when confronted, they will frequently respond to feedback by lashing out in anger to deflect blame or deny responsibility.

Unfortunately, far too many people are 'thin skinned' when it comes to receiving feedback and as a result, they often misinterpret sincere criticism as a form of personal attack. It's fairly typical and somewhat understandable for people to become overly defensive and a bit argumentative whenever their personal flaws and shortcomings are held up to the glaring spotlight of criticism.

Obviously, not all feedback is accurate, sincere or of equal importance. Nor does every input automatically require action to be taken. However, the key to long-term business success and personal achievement is determined largely not by hard work alone, but by ones' ability to glean the kernels of wisdom from the chaff of feedback.

It's important not to put up a wall to avoid feedback, because the same walls that shield us from criticism also block our potential. When is the last time you recall asking your boss, associates or close friends for their honest feedback?

Here are several important tips to help you gain the most benefit from your next feedback session:

  • Don't shoot the messenger: be polite and keep your focus on the message.
  • Don't become upset, judgmental or defensive: be willing to consider every input.
  • Don't argue or interrupt. Listen like a homicide detective and stay open-minded.
  • Don't rationalize your way out of accepting responsibility for your actions.
  • Ask open-ended questions to gain understanding. It's a good idea to frequently summarize and clarify the feedback in your own words. Always ask for specific examples.
  • Take time to reflect on the feedback and look for opportunities to continuously incorporate useful suggestions to improve your effectiveness.
  • Thank the people who take the time to give you honest feedback, because without them you'll never attain your full potential.
John Boe presents a wide variety of motivational and sales-oriented keynotes and seminar programs for sales meetings and conventions. John is a nationally recognized sales trainer and business motivational speaker with an impeccable track record in the meeting industry. To have John speak at your next event, visit www.johnboe.com or call 937-299-9001. Free Newsletter available on website.

© Copyright 2010, John Boe International
Global Brand Awareness & Marketing Tools at 4Hoteliers.com ...[Click for More]
 Latest News  (Click title to read article)




 Latest Articles  (Click title to read)




 Most Read Articles  (Click title to read)




~ Important Notice ~
Articles appearing on 4Hoteliers contain copyright material. They are meant for your personal use and may not be reproduced or redistributed. While 4Hoteliers makes every effort to ensure accuracy, we can not be held responsible for the content nor the views expressed, which may not necessarily be those of either the original author or 4Hoteliers or its agents.
© Copyright 4Hoteliers 2001-2024 ~ unless stated otherwise, all rights reserved.
You can read more about 4Hoteliers and our company here
Use of this web site is subject to our
terms & conditions of service and privacy policy