Feedback is a gift that empowers leadership growth. Yes, it may feel uncomfortable at times and can hit you in all the sensitive spots, but for leaders who want to grow, thrive, and truly inspire, it’s one of the most powerful tools available.
At Corporate Class, we’ve seen firsthand how leaders who embrace feedback transform their executive presence, team dynamics, and overall impact. Let’s explore why it matters, how to integrate it into your leadership style, and practical ways to act on feedback to take your leadership to the next level.
The Importance of Feedback for Leadership Growth
If leadership is a journey, then feedback is the compass that ensures you’re on course. No matter your title or tenure, there will always be things you can’t see about yourself – blind spots in your communication style, gaps in inclusion efforts, or moments when your actions aren’t landing as intended. Feedback is important because of its ability to illuminate these blind spots and offer you a roadmap to grow and refine your leadership style.
Create Inclusivity and Trust by Accepting Constructive Feedback
Hearing constructive feedback can sting. No one enjoys being told they fell short, but how you handle feedback as a leader sets the tone for your team. It’s in these moments that trust and inclusivity are either built or broken.
When you gracefully accept feedback (even when it’s hard to hear), you create a safe space where others feel empowered to speak up. This practice is crucial for fostering inclusivity. If team members believe they can share concerns or ideas without fear of retaliation or dismissal, they’re more likely to contribute authentically. This trust is the bedrock of an inclusive workplace.
Integrating Feedback Into Your Leadership Style for Greater Impact
Feedback means nothing if it doesn’t lead to change. The challenge isn’t just receiving input – it’s knowing how to integrate feedback into your leadership style in a way that creates measurable impact.
The first step is to listen actively before taking time to reflect: What does this say about how I’m showing up as a leader?
Next, apply what you’ve learned. Leadership growth requires candor with yourself. If feedback reveals you’re not giving enough credit to your team, improve. If you’re told communication isn’t clear, recalibrate. Your team will notice your effort and respect your drive to evolve.
Practical Tips for Acting on and Soliciting Feedback Effectively
Feedback is only valuable if leaders know how to solicit and act on it – here are some tips:
- Cultivate an Open-Door Feedback Culture: Start by regularly inviting your team to share honest input. Use prompts like, “Is there anything I could do differently to support you better?” or “Where do you think I could improve?” This gives people permission to speak the truth that you need to hear.
- Close the Loop: Feedback doesn’t end when you’ve heard someone out – follow up with the person to share how their input has been implemented (or why it hasn’t). Closing the loop shows you respect them and take their input seriously.
- Embrace Multiple Perspectives: Don’t rely on a single source of feedback. Ask peers, direct reports, and leadership colleagues to provide a 360-degree view of your performance. The richer your feedback sources, the clearer the picture of your growth opportunities.
Now’s your chance to level up your leadership by learning how to truly harness feedback — and Corporate Class is here to guide you. Explore our offerings or contact us today to start turning insights into action with our Executive Presence & Leadership Coaching or to learn more about our Center for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.
