When you get critical feedback, don't defend yourself right away. Thank them, ask for a specific example, and ask what impact it had. Quick defensiveness tells people honesty costs them, so they stop giving it.
Defending yourself against negative feedback feels like the best thing to do. I'm going to tell you in 60 seconds why it's not. The second someone gives you difficult feedback, your brain wants to defend, to explain, to correct them, to produce Exhibit A through to Exhibit F to show them why they're wrong. The thing is, if you defend too quickly, you're teaching people that being honest with you is expensive and risky. And then they stop telling you the truth. Say this. Thank you for telling me. Can you give me an example? And what impact did that have? This works because you're not necessarily agreeing with them, but you're understanding their point before you respond. That's what mature leadership looks like, even when your ego is having a minor panic attack. If you want the words for these awkward manager moments, just like this, grab my free Say This First guide. I'll put it with this post for you.
