Thanks for the Feedback: The Science and Art of Receiving Feedback Well

by Douglas Stone

This is why when you are a giver, asking your receiver to coach you as their coach is so important. WHAT RECEIVERS CAN DO A few final words for receivers as we work to adapt to the organization, community, and family we live in. First, a reminder: Regardless of context or the company you keep, you are the most important person in your own learning. Your organization or team or boss might support or stifle feedback. Either way, they can’t stop you from learning. You don’t have to depend on your annual review or your boss’s willingness to mentor. You can watch, ask questions, and solicit suggestions from coworkers, customers, partners, and friends. You don’t have to wait around for someone to train you to sell more shoes. Observe whoever sells the most and try to figure out what they’re doing differently. And ask them to watch you. Whatever they suggest, try it on. Experiment with the advice, and if the shoe fits, wear it. Whatever you do in your organization—whether it’s selling shoes or saving souls—you’re surrounded by people you can learn from.