You've encountered criticism after a career setback. How do you turn it into a catalyst for change?

I acknowledge the challenges and setbacks I've faced in my career, and I view them as an opportunity for growth rather than failure. Criticism, when approached constructively, offers valuable insights. It helps identify areas where improvement is needed and pushes me to evolve. By embracing this feedback, I can refocus on innovation and adapt to industry changes. Every setback has fueled my determination to push boundaries, experiment with new ideas, and lead with even more resilience. It's about learning from the experience, staying transparent, and turning obstacles into stepping stones for greater success.

It's rare for anyone to go through their career without getting critical feedback - no one is perfect. So given that it is inevitable, don't fight it! I learnt early on in my consulting career that "feedback is a gift", and who doesn't like gifts?! If you treat all feedback in this manner, then it will only make you better. And remember that the true intent behind well-delivered feedback is to make you better, to avoid repeating a mistake. Be open to feedback, ask for feedback, and take it on board. The other part of receiving feedback is how you respond in the moment. I was also taught that there are only 2 acceptable immediate responses to critical feedback, 1) thank you, or 2) to ask clarifying questions. Do not argue back, or deflect.

First and foremost understand that setbacks and criticism are to be expected. I can't think of any leader, inventor, scientist, sportsperson or... restaurant server who has a perfect record. The key to your success is what you do next. So reflect on what went wrong, how much of that was in your control and how you applied your skills, knowledge and influence leading up to the setback. Then consider the criticism, who it came from and their position in the event/s. Also understand how you handle criticism. If you take things personally take time to heal and build your confidence. If it doesn't affect you then maybe pause and search for lessons to be learned. Finally bank the experience, share your new wisdom and move forward.

When faced with criticism, it's crucial to understand its source and the forum in which it's raised. Whether in a 1:1 or a governance meeting, I always start by thanking the stakeholder for their feedback. In 1:1s, I take time to investigate, using data to assess and address their concerns. In a governance forum, I also express gratitude, acknowledging that it’s the first time I’m hearing the issue, and I commit to investigating further. Accountability is key—I ensure the matter is addressed and report back in future meetings to demonstrate progress and ownership.

In meiner Laufbahn habe ich gelernt, dass man allzu schnell in Widerstand bei Kritik und Veränderung gerät. Sowohl Feedback als auch Kritik sollte man als Chance zur Weiterentwicklung sehen. Aus Feedback kannst du analysieren, worin du Unterstützung bzw. Weiterbildung benötigst. Kritik würde ich nicht mehr zu persönlich nehmen, eher reflektieren und daraus meine Schlüsse ziehen.

Mais do que isso, quando se assume uma postura de aprendizado em relação à crítica, você também inspira sua equipe e colegas a fazerem o mesmo, criando um ambiente de trabalho mais aberto ao feedback e focado na melhoria contínua. Essa mentalidade contribui não só para o desenvolvimento individual, mas também para a construção de uma cultura organizacional mais forte e colaborativa.

Ao dividir suas metas em etapas menores e gerenciáveis, você pode celebrar vitórias ao longo do caminho, o que mantém a motivação alta e reforça a importância de um processo de crescimento bem planejado. Isso demonstra compromisso com a melhoria contínua e a capacidade de ajustar seu caminho à medida que novos desafios surgem.

In every process of reaching a goal, we will encounter challenges. Key is to view failure as part of the success journey. By embracing feedback you can unleash hidden potential you may never have known if you had you not encountered the challenge. Failure means opportunity to set yourself up for continuous development.

Get this: You need to be comfortable being uncomfortable. Take those criticisms & turn them into your learning experience. 1. Start with looking at things positively. Even a piece of paper has 2 sides (Japanese proverb). Think positive, embrace a growth mindset to be better the next time. 2. Listen actively & objectively sift through the criticism. Ignore who said it. Focus on the main points raised in the feedback. 3. Take the bull by the horns. Accept gaps & plan taking pragmatic next steps & actions for continuous improvement. 4. Get a career mentor who points you in the right direction, whose perspective matters in evaluating criticisms. 5. Embrace closing the loop mentality to address all shortcomings effectively & expediently.