Today was a good day. Remarkable huh. The reason it was a good day was two-fold (is that a word or should it be bi-fold like those expensive patio doors?) First, I spoke to someone who was really engaged and interested in what I have to say. They listened really well. And then, and this is the best bit, they sent me some lovely feedback. I know I shouldn’t be so surprised by this, but it doesn’t happen as often as I'd like and it really really made a difference to how I felt about my work and how I felt about myself. We’re naturally wired to see the negative in things (and I am a particular expert at that) and when we share our work with our colleagues it’s for their comment to improve it and we don’t expect to hear positives, or if we do it’s sandwiched between the improvements / negatives.
And why wouldn’t we give more positive feedback when we have met someone or commented on something? Do we want people to grow, or wither. I know every setback makes you stronger blah blah blah but I reckon every commendation does the same too. I know time is short, and pressure is great but the value of a proper heartfelt ‘I enjoyed our meeting, nice to meet you, I think you’ve done a great job’ can have a massive positive and motivational impact. The even better bit is to say why it was good, and be specific, because that shows you really listened or really appreciated the person / their work. Do it quickly too, and describe how it made a real difference to the work of your organisation.
2 Comments
Audrey
2/6/2017 04:58:04 am
Wonderful to know I have made someone's day. I am exercising some hubris and assuming this was me but I could be wrong. Live a good life !
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Elaine Fisher
4/14/2017 04:29:48 am
Hi Paul, I got to your blog through Twitter. I fully agree with you. Last year as a New Years resolution I decided to tell people if I heard anything good about them. Even if I didn't know them. We often give negative feedback but forget to give the good. I've had such a good time doing this (see- it's all about me really :-) ) and met some great people. It can be a tiny thing too but gives people a boost. See you again soon. Elaine
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