Learning to Take It

After every speech or presentation I have a process of tough, objective review. In fact, within the GiANT companies this process is part of every process of innovation. This is not a process to simply feel good or look for praise. We are actually improving each other.

I recently asked my business partner, Matthew Myers, to review a recent talk and with great delight I received some excellent advice and counsel to improve my communication and relations with the executives I was talking to. Several things must happen, though, in order to receive this type of counsel.

1. We must desire to improve.
2. We must know that the person that is speaking is for us and has pure motives.
3. A process for feedback must be developed.
4. Ask questions to clarify what the person is saying.
5. Take the feedback and think about it. Write it out, and then discuss it with others.
6. Thank the person and show them you can take it.

Great leaders can take advice without defense. Great leaders in fact, welcome it.

Learn to take it.

Posted on August 20, 2008 in Leader Development