Susan Drumm says executives often think they're open to feedback, but as they climb ranks, people stop being honest. Ask your team: "What's something I do that you hesitate to tell me about?" If silence follows, you don't have psychological safety. Listen without defending when someone speaks up.
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Most executives think they're open to feedback until they realize no one's giving it to them. The higher you rise, the less direct feedback you receive, not because your team doesn't have any thoughts, but because they don't feel safe sharing them. So if you want to grow as a leader, ask this question at your next leadership meeting. What's something I do that you hesitate to tell me about? And then pause. The hesitation in the room will tell you everything. If no one speaks up, it's not because you're perfect. It's because your team isn't sure if honesty is truly welcome. Great leaders don't just ask for feedback. They create an environment where speaking up is safe and expected. So how do you respond when the answers start coming? Listen. Don't justify. Don't explain. Just thank them. Because the moment your team sees that honesty won't be punished, you'll start hearing the feedback that actually makes you a better leader.