Over time, I’ve learned that effective leadership isn’t just about making decisions and steering the ship. It’s about fostering a culture where feedback is not only welcomed but actively sought out. This journey toward becoming a better leader (from any position) has taught me that being clear is being kind, feedback can improve performance at all levels, and engagement thrives in an environment that encourages strong feedback exchange.
Being Clear is Being Kind
One of the first lessons I learned about feedback came from the phrase, “being clear is being kind.” This means that providing honest, direct feedback, even when it’s uncomfortable, is an act of kindness. It prevents misunderstandings, clarifies expectations, and helps everyone know where they stand. When I began to practice this, I noticed a significant shift in how my team responded to me. They appreciated the honesty and clarity, which in turn fostered a more transparent and trusting work environment.
For instance, I remember a situation where one of my employees was consistently missing deadlines. Initially, I hesitated to address it directly, fearing it might come off as harsh. However, after mustering the courage to have an honest conversation, I discovered that the employee was struggling with a process they hadn’t fully understood. By being clear and addressing the issue head-on, we were able to find a solution together, and their performance improved in a positive and significant way.
Feedback Can Improve Performance at All Levels
Another critical realization was that feedback isn’t just beneficial for team members; it’s also invaluable for me as a leader. Seeking feedback from my team opened my eyes to areas where I could improve. Whether it was my communication style, decision-making process, or the way I handled conflicts, their insights were instrumental in helping me grow.
I made it a habit to ask for feedback regularly, through both formal channels like surveys and informal one-on-one conversations. This not only helped me fine-tune my leadership approach but also demonstrated to my team that I valued their opinions and was committed to continuous improvement. Over time, this created a culture where everyone felt responsible for their development and was motivated to perform at their best.
Engagement Increases in Environments Where Strong Feedback Exchange is Encouraged
One of the most rewarding outcomes of fostering a strong feedback culture is the increase in employee engagement. When team members feel heard and know that their input can lead to real changes, their commitment to the organization deepens. They become more invested in their work and the success of the team.
I observed this firsthand during a period of significant organizational change. By actively seeking and incorporating feedback, I was able to navigate the transition more smoothly and maintain high levels of morale and productivity. Employees who might have otherwise felt sidelined or resistant to change became champions of the new direction, simply because they felt their voices mattered.
Final Thought
Embracing feedback has undoubtedly made me a better leader. It has helped me cultivate a more open, transparent, and engaged workplace. By being clear and kind in my feedback, seeking input to improve my own performance, and fostering a culture that values strong feedback exchange, I’ve seen my business and team thrive. For any small business owner, leader, employee, or coach looking to enhance their leadership skills, I cannot overstate the importance of feedback. It’s a powerful tool that can transform not just your leadership, but your entire team.