Do you like to be around people, sharing your opinions and encouraging discussion as “yes” men and women? Or, do you prefer to hear from those with different ideas who could bring something unique to the table? The way we handle working in peer groups and gathering ideas can make or break how adaptable we are to new innovations. That said, here are some great ways to get the most out of your team – and your company!
Teaching and Learning
Do you want to learn from others, or are you interested in gathering followers who blindly agree to your ideas? Or, would you like to hear more constructive feedback while educating others on your team, effectively helping each other out? These are questions you should ask yourself, particularly if you manage a big team of people. Get to know yourself and your own goals before trying to interpret feedback.
Getting Over Ourselves
You know, it’s tough to accept criticism when you have a really great idea that you feel will be a huge benefit! That said, feedback shouldn’t be treated as a bad thing, even if it’s a tad harsh or what we don’t want to hear. In fact, collaborating with team members on ideas can level the playing field and encourage more discussions, brainstorming and the further cultivation of other ideas. Perhaps someone else has a great suggestion that can be used in conjunction with your own plan, improving results further! We never know unless if we “get over ourselves” and listen to feedback.
Interpreting Feedback
Let’s say you ask a close friend if they’ve seen a recent movie that’s come out. They say yes, and that they loved it, which makes you run over to the theatre yourself, popcorn in hand. On the flip side, some of us might have that other friend – you know, the one who’s negative about everything – who tells you the same movie is horrible. However, you’ve adapted to their feedback over time and learned that you’ll love what they hate. All in all, the way we interpret feedback is based on how we get to know folks. So, get to know your peers and see who the best candidates are for cultivating ideas! If you’ve got a bunch of negative employees, it’s better to reach outside that circle for a fresh perspective from someone else you can trust.
The direction we steer our businesses in is influenced by brainstorming, but what if you want to go in the best way possible? Bear these tips in mind and surround yourself with positive, supportive and honest people, and you’ll be ahead of the pack!