make feedback your friend.
Fun fact: only 5% of assistants proactively seek feedback outside the annual performance cycle. This is a stat from my recent research survey of over 300 assistants globally.
This stat didn't surprise me. Many assistants aren't taught the art of seeking feedback and natural opportunities to seek it don't arise in the same way they might for other professionals, such as at the end of a project.
I also know a lot of assistants don't feel comfortable seeking feedback when they're work isn't well understood or if they're experiencing "that" perception in their workplace. Conditions don't always feel safe enough to be brave and ask.
The problem is however, it's a HUGE missed opportunity to identify blind spots and discover where we could have greater impact.
Feedback conversations don't have to be scary. They can be highly motivating. They often lead to more meaningful performance reviews and development conversations and they can open the door to opportunities such as exposure to new work to help develop critical skills and ultimately support growth and progression.
So what to do if you want to get started?
Try the Start, Stop, Continue method. Ask:
What should I start doing?
What should I stop doing?
What should I continue doing?
Short and sweet, the responses to these questions will help you understand what to focus on and the difference it might make and open the door to ongoing dialogue.
Be sure to ask people who see you in a wide variety of situations, and for extra points, ask someone you don't always see eye-to-eye with.....really.... A little intimidating at first, but quite possibly the most valuable feedback you'll receive.
Tell me here
Do you regularly seek feedback?
What difference has it made in your career?
If you don't, what is preventing you?
If you need support with this, keep your eyes out for a special free community masterclass on this topic. The 2024 freebie roster is shaping up to be a great one. If you're in my newsletter community you'll always hear of freebies like this first. Subscribe here
I'm excited to continue to support the community with free L&D next year.
Watch this space to find the latest free offerings.
