Gina Lodge

Giving and receiving feedback helps you and others to grow. t can be very difficult for some people to say what they think if it is felt as a negative offering. Sometimes we can sense that what we have said or done has not landed well, and equally can offer a gentle request of something like: do you think I spoke far to much at the meeting? This 'invitation' provides permission to give your perspective. We have to remember that it is easy to give or receive good feedback, but to give or receive what could be seen as negative feedback may need more care. Perhaps seek to practice with a coach, if you have the opportunity, to make it be and feel authentic and the intent useful rather than critical.

Be visible and proactive. Often people can stay quiet during meetings and yet have good contributions to make. Not everyone feels comfortable talking in a group and prefer to catch someone at the coffee machine. Be bold and have a voice at the table. It is a time and invitation to share what you think. Airing this at the coffee machine will go nowhere. I have heard people who feel what they say is not important, or they will be challenged on what they say. The best way is to build confidence in yourself by trying thinks that may feel a little uncomfortable at the beginning. You will gain much respect in speaking up and finding the courage until it feels normal.

Setting goals, can give a team, as well as yourself both a goal and also a sense of collective achievement. Regular conversations, knowing the part you play and what is expected, will enable you to be able to effectively articulate your progress. Poor or lack of good communication can leave others in the dark and left to make their own perception of the current situation. Working collaboratively in a team and supporting each others will lead to a celebration of good outcomes , good collaboration and a growth in your self - confidence.

Building confidence and assertiveness begins with you understanding yourself. If you feel confident in a role, and are clear about what is expected of you, this will give you the strength to help and support others. Consider an approach of lifetime learning to keep up to date and knowledgeable about your subject. Some people can feel overwhelmed by the speed of change in a company. This can leave a dent in confidence. Ask for feedback on a regular basis to help surface any concerns and support opportunities for dialogue and opinions.

To begin with, as always, make sure you understand what you are seeking to achieve. This sounds basic, but many people use well known terms such as strategy and strategic thinking, without revisiting their understanding and meaning. Before you go further, having a trusted adviser, to help you craft a plan may keep you focussed, gain lived experience, and develop a plan of activities and accountability. Mentors also usually have a treasure chest of resources to signpost for you. It also represents one of my favourite quotes: ‘If you want to go far, go together’ African Proverb

People who always aim to provide quality and value as their normal modus operandi, usually set high standards for themselves, and both expect the best and give their best as well. When we consider times when we have either received poor service or value, it may generally leave us at least disappointed, and in many businesses, people will not return or value you enough to recommend you. Always appreciate your colleagues and customers enough to give them your best.