Here's how you can handle feedback without getting defensive or taking it personally.

Receiving feedback is an integral part of professional growth, yet it often triggers a defensive response. It's natural to feel vulnerable when your work is under scrutiny, but the key to advancement lies in handling criticism constructively. By reframing your perspective on feedback, you can use it as a stepping stone rather than a stumbling block. Adopting a mindset of learning and openness to improvement will make all the difference in your journey towards excellence in business services.

1 Stay Objective

When feedback comes your way, it's crucial to separate your personal feelings from the professional content of the critique. Imagine the feedback as a gift aimed at improving your skills or processes, not as an attack on your character or worth. By focusing on the facts and specific examples provided, you can objectively assess what changes may be beneficial. This approach allows you to view feedback as a valuable resource for personal and professional development, rather than a personal affront.

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2 Listen Fully

Active listening is a vital skill when receiving feedback. Resist the urge to interrupt or formulate a response while the other person is still speaking. Instead, give them your full attention, nodding to acknowledge you're engaged, and wait until they've finished before you respond. This not only shows respect but also ensures you fully understand the points being made. Often, the act of listening can diffuse defensiveness and open the door to meaningful dialogue and improvement.

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Thea 🌞 Soehren, CBAP, CSPO, ICP-APO, 🛠️, LION

The Problem-Solving Business Analyst | Founder of BA Force Multiplier | Purpose Driven Speaker, Trainer and Author | IIBA Chapter President | BA Matchmaker | Fractional Consultant - Together we MOVE FORWARD!
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Feedback provides an opportunity to reflect on another’s observations and opinion. This may identify areas you can improve, even if it is only improvement of your communication, transparency or teamwork. This same feedback shows you how the other person perceives you, giving you insight as to their communication style, love language, literal sense, fears, assumptions, and motivations. It’s like turning on a light to illuminate them so you can better communicate with them.

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3 Ask Questions

Once you've listened to the feedback, asking clarifying questions can help you understand the specifics and the intent behind the comments. Inquire about examples or ask for suggestions on how to improve. This demonstrates your willingness to engage with the feedback positively and shows that you're committed to growth. It also helps to depersonalize the situation, turning it into a collaborative effort to enhance your work.

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4 Reflect First

After receiving feedback, take some time to reflect on it before reacting. This pause can help you process the information calmly and consider the validity of the points raised. Reflecting helps in separating emotional reactions from logical assessments, allowing you to decide which aspects of the feedback are useful and which might not be applicable. This period of reflection is essential for responding thoughtfully rather than defensively.

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5 Plan Action

Turning feedback into actionable steps is a proactive way to show that you're taking it seriously. Develop a plan to address the areas needing improvement. Whether it's a skill you need to learn or a process you need to refine, setting clear goals and timelines will help you move forward constructively. This also communicates to those who provided the feedback that their input is valued and has led to positive change.

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6 Maintain Positivity

Maintaining a positive attitude towards feedback is key. Instead of dwelling on any negative aspects, focus on the opportunity for growth that it provides. A positive outlook will make it easier for you to accept feedback without feeling attacked and will encourage others to continue providing constructive insights in the future. Remember, feedback is not about failure; it's about the potential for success and excellence in your role.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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Najumun Taj

Restaurant Consultant | Expert in Branding | Driving Restaurant Operations and Customer Experience Excellence
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Handling feedback in entrepreneurship and leadership involves cultivating a growth mindset and separating personal emotions from professional evaluation. Firstly, approach feedback as an opportunity for growth rather than criticism. Listen actively, seeking to understand perspectives and areas for improvement. Embrace humility, acknowledging that no one is perfect and there's always room to learn. Ask clarifying questions and reflect on how the feedback aligns with your goals and values. Focus on solutions and actionable steps for improvement. Effective leaders recognize that feedback is essential for personal and organizational development, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and resilience in the face of challenges.

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Here's how you can handle feedback without getting defensive or taking it personally.

1

2

3

4

5

6

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1 Stay Objective

2 Listen Fully

3 Ask Questions

4 Reflect First

5 Plan Action

6 Maintain Positivity

7 Here’s what else to consider

Business Services

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Here's how you can handle feedback without getting defensive or taking it personally.

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Stay Objective

2 Listen Fully

3 Ask Questions

4 Reflect First

5 Plan Action

6 Maintain Positivity

7 Here’s what else to consider

Business Services

Rate this article

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