What stops talented leaders from truly hearing honest feedback? This episode tackles that question head-on, drawing from both leading research and lived experience. While most articles, books, and workshops focus on how to give feedback, this discussion targets how to receive it. I explore why so many feedback conversations break down and how leaders can do better.
Core themes include the impact of our gut reactions to critical feedback, how quickly we discount advice based on source or style, and why challenges to our identity produce the fiercest resistance. Listeners will be guided through practical, evidence-informed strategies to become better feedback recipients, creating environments where candid conversations thrive.
This episode offers a refreshing, evidence-based approach for anyone committed to their own growth and eager to lead with greater effectiveness and humility.
What You’ll Learn
- The roots of our genuine hesitation surrounding feedback conversations.
- How our reactions can prevent or derail future feedback.
- Although not all feedback will be delivered perfectly, you can still find value.
- Don’t let your relationship with the feedback-giver cloud your judgment
- Feedback stings most when it challenges our identity.
Podcast Timestamps
(00:02) – Setting the Stagek
(01:12) – The Personal Challenge of Receiving Feedback
(05:17) – Truth Triggers: Dismissing Feedback Based on Tone and Delivery
(08:38) – Beware of Absolutes
(10:18) – Source Triggers: Who Delivers the Feedback
(12:41) – Difficult Feedback from Difficult People
(13:52) – Identity Triggers: When Feedback Challenges Self-Image
(17:17) – Personal Reflection: My Own Struggle with Feedback that Challenged My Identity
(20:01) - Strategies for Curiosity and Constructive Engagement
(23:40) - Bringing it Together: Commitment to Feedback Reception
KEYWORDS
Positive Leadership, Feedback, Receiving Feedback, Giving Feedback, Leadership Growth, Psychological Safety, Critical Feedback, Defensiveness, Feedback Triggers, Doug Stone, Sheila Heen, Zenger Folkman, 360 feedback, Radical Candor, Feedback Accuracy, Feedback Source, Identity and Feedback, Evidence-Based Leadership, Coaching, Blind Spots, Core Values, Curiosity, CEO Success
Source: Why (Senior) Leaders Struggle to Get Feedback and How to Change That - Do Good To Lead Well with Craig Dowden | Podcast on Spotify
https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/why-senior-leaders-struggle-to-get-feedback-and-how/id1634491338?i=1000764642523
