Handling growth feedback as a leader

Managing people is one of the greatest sources of joy and personal growth for me — I love it, even when it pushes me out of my comfort zone 💚.

Last week, one of the people I manage gave me some growth feedback about my reaction to a particular situation. It took courage for them to raise it with me — even in companies that claim flat hierarchies and psychologically safe cultures, giving feedback upwards can be one of the scariest things you’ll do. Unequal power distribution, fear of repercussions, and concerns about how that feedback will be received are real barriers to open communication.

So what happened as a result of that feedback? We had a blimmin' good conversation about how we both acted and responded in that situation. It led to a deeper understanding of our motives, values, thinking, and behavior. I'm confident it has improved our relationship, and on my part, it has certainly increased the trust and respect I have for this colleague.

If someone you manage gives you feedback that challenges you, be grateful, because it truly is a gift 🎁. It’s an opportunity for growth and deeper connection.

And if they don’t, perhaps that’s a cue to reflect on why you aren’t getting that kind of feedback as a leader? 🤔 What are you projecting that might make people hesitate to speak up?