Why You Should Be Asking Your Team for Feedback

October 1, 2024

As leaders, we often focus on giving feedback, but how often do we ask for it? In episode 140 of Managing Made Simple, I’m sharing why asking for feedback from your team is just as important as giving it. When we ask for feedback, we show our vulnerability, build trust, and create an open, supportive work environment. It’s time to make feedback a two-way street!

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Why Feedback Should Go Both Ways

When you ask for feedback from your team, it shows you care and encourages your team members to be more open and honest. It’s not just about making changes based on what they say—it’s about building psychological safety and showing that their opinions matter. A feedback culture isn’t just for your team members; it’s for you, too!

Step 1: Ask the Right Questions

Avoid yes/no questions like “Do you have any feedback for me?” Instead, frame your feedback request around a specific behavior you’ve been working on. For example, “I’ve been trying to step back and give more space—how am I doing with that?” By making the question specific and open-ended, you make it easier for your team to respond.

Step 2: Show Vulnerability

Sharing that you’re aware of your growth areas makes it easier for your team to give feedback. It shows them that you’re actively working to improve and that their input is valuable. Don’t be afraid to share your own challenges and let them know you’re open to their thoughts.

Step 3: Keep the Door Open

Feedback isn’t a one-time event. Even if your team doesn’t have anything to say right away, remind them that you’re always open to hearing their thoughts. Regularly asking for feedback helps normalize the process and builds a culture of openness over time.

By asking for feedback, you strengthen the relationship with your team, build trust, and create a culture where everyone feels heard and supported. Ready to make feedback a two-way street? Let’s get started.

🎧 Listen on Apple
🎧 Listen on Spotify
🎥 Watch on YouTube

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0sxttuYE1JU

Meet Lia Garvin

Lia Garvin is the bestselling author of UnstuckTEDx speaker, host of the top podcast Managing Made Simple and team operations consultant with experience leading team operations across Google, Microsoft, Apple, and Bank of America. As the Founder of the The Workplace Reframe business consulting firm, Lia uses the lens of “disruption without destruction” to equip innovative organizations of any size and industry with the tools to cultivate inclusive, motivated, high performing teams resulting in higher retention, more efficiency, and better business results. She is a sought after expert in the media, featured across Inc, FastCompany, ABC News, CNN Business, US News & World Report, HBR, Yahoo, and TV News.

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