How You Can Source Feedback to Add Value in The Workplace

How you can source feedback to add value in the workplace.

Becoming great at a job might seem easy, but the real challenge is making it easy for the whole team.

People should give you advice on how to do better, but they don't because they don't want to make you feel bad.

There's little more disheartening than discovering post-effort that your work was a subject of critical water cooler conversations.

I remember stepping into a role where I was told to learn from a colleague who was unfit and underperforming. After watching him, I realized the issue was less about his competence and more about the lack of clear direction and constructive feedback from management.

This experience was a turning point, teaching me the critical importance of actively seeking feedback to enhance my value in the workplace.

Here are three strategies I've used to get valuable feedback, even from those who typically don’t provide it:

1. Promote Openness: Clearly state that you are open to feedback and that you value other people’s perspectives. This will help start an open dialogue.

2. Seek Specifics: Instead of being vague, ask targeted questions about particular aspects of your work. This will help get more actionable feedback.

3. Express Gratitude: Always show appreciation for the feedback received, reinforcing a positive feedback environment.

4. Acting on the feedback has not only improved my performance but significantly increased my value within the team.

I encourage you to seek, embrace, and act upon feedback in your workplace, and witness the impact it can have on your professional journey.