What is Feedback?

Feedback is information we receive from others defining their perception of us in terms of looks, actions, or things we have said. We often look at feedback as something negative, but feedback, properly given and received, may also be defined as an opportunity to expand one’s understanding and can be used as a tool for achieving positive results. Properly given, this feedback becomes constructive feedback. We receive feedback daily and from different sources. If we can understand it and use it, this feedback can empower us to communicate more openly and improve our performance in many areas.

Feedback is seldom verbal only – emotions, timing, location, body language, etc., occur. All contribute to how feedback is received. Consider the intent of the feedback. If you do not have a positive intent, a positive outcome is not possible.

One of the reasons why we tend to resist critical feedback is that a good part of our self-image is based on how others view us. When we find out that someone sees us in a less-than-positive light, we may feel devastated. We like to hear what is consistent with our own views and resist ideas contrary to our beliefs. But, if we knew that we were doing something ineffectively, wouldn’t we try to improve the performance? Constructive feedback implies that we could be wrong. What could be more personal and threatening? It takes an open mind to be able to listen to an opposing view. 

What we should realize is that constructive feedback has two interactors – one giver and one receiver. It is not just something we must “take,” but something we can respond to and interact with.