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Sitting at my desk, surrounded by the familiar hum of office life, I am reminded of a journey that has profoundly shaped my professional experience. It's the journey of mastering the art of sustainable feedback – a practice that has transformed my team and my personal approach to leadership and growth.
Like many others, I confused feedback with the uncomfortable and often negative annual performance reviews. These experiences were more about ticking boxes than genuine development. I recall feeling anxious, knowing my team members were equally nervous about these meetings. It was a cycle that seemed necessary but was hardly inspiring or productive.
The turning point came during a leadership workshop that introduced me to "sustainable feedback." Unlike traditional methods, this approach emphasizes continuous, constructive, and future-focused interactions. It was an eye-opener. I realized that feedback could be a powerful tool for nurturing growth and building confidence rather than just assessing performance.
Embracing this new approach took work. It required me to shift my mindset and develop new communication skills. I started by setting regular one-on-one meetings with my team members, focusing on their strengths, areas for improvement, and career aspirations. These conversations were collaborative, aiming for long-term development rather than short-term evaluations.
The impact of this shift was remarkable. The atmosphere in our team meetings changed from tense to energized. My team members started to open up, sharing their ideas and challenges more freely. They began to see feedback not as criticism but as an opportunity for growth and learning. This change led to more innovation, better problem-solving, and a stronger sense of unity within the team.
One particular instance stands out in my memory. A team member, let's call her Angela, was struggling with public speaking, which was crucial for her role. In the past, she might have received a comment in her performance review to 'improve public speaking,' but with sustainable feedback, we took a different approach. We identified specific areas for improvement, set up a plan with practice sessions, and provided ongoing support and encouragement. Over time, Sarah's confidence and skills grew remarkably.
Sustainable feedback transcends the boundaries of the office. It's about fostering a culture of continuous learning and support, which spills over into personal growth and stronger interpersonal relationships. My team members and I have carried these principles into our personal lives, reaping benefits in our interactions outside work.
As I continue on this journey, I am constantly learning and adapting. Sustainable feedback is neither a one-size-fits-all solution nor a static process. It's a dynamic, ongoing practice that requires empathy, patience, and a genuine commitment to the growth of others. I encourage every leader, team member, and organization to embrace the practice of sustainable feedback. It's a transformative approach that enhances performance and nurtures a positive, growth-oriented workplace culture.
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