We all know the importance of giving feedback – but what about receiving it?
In this episode, Dominic is joined by fellow consultant Ash Smith to explore the often-overlooked (and even harder) skill of receiving feedback well. Whether it’s a surprise comment from your boss, a clumsily delivered suggestion, or even a genuine moment of coaching – how we receive feedback makes all the difference to whether we grow, shut down, or miss an opportunity entirely.
Ash shares powerful personal stories and practical techniques to help you stay open, assume positive intent, and get the most from feedback – even when it’s poorly delivered. They also unpack why feedback can be triggering, how our own “armour” gets in the way, and why building a feedback culture requires more than just training people to deliver it well.
Key Topics Discussed
- Why feedback can feel so uncomfortable – even for experienced leaders
- How our personal history and “armour” shape how we respond
- The impact of body language and emotional triggers
- Why the way feedback is delivered matters – and why it’s still not an excuse to shut down
- Techniques for receiving feedback more constructively
- The power of slowing down, asking questions, and staying open
- How to build a culture that normalises feedback
- Why positive feedback is just as important – and often forgotten
- The difference between giving feedback and coaching through open questions
Actions to Take
- Take a breath before responding – create space between stimulus and response.
- Assume positive intent – especially when feedback catches you off guard.
- Ask clarifying questions – explore the feedback before reacting or rejecting.
- Reflect, then decide – you don’t have to agree with or act on all feedback, but understanding it is key.
- Give more positive feedback – don’t wait for things to go wrong to speak up.
- Set the tone as a leader – create an environment where feedback is invited, valued, and actioned.
- Avoid the “feedback sandwich” – give positive and developmental feedback separately and sincerely.
Resources Mentioned
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Time to Think by Nancy Kline – on the power of active listening
Final Thought
Receiving feedback is a skill – and a choice. It’s not about always agreeing, but about being open enough to hear what others see and being curious about what you might learn.
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