Chapter 3
Giving & receiving feedback
“We all need people who give us feedback. That’s how we improve.”
— Bill Gates
Pause before reacting
Your first instinct is defense.
Breathe.
Most feedback feels personal at first, even when it isn’t.
Listen for insight, not accuracy
Even clumsy feedback can hold truth.
Ask: “What part of this could help me?”
Separate intention from impact
The person giving feedback might mean well but say it poorly.
Focus on the message, not the delivery.
Ask clarifying questions
“Can you give an example?” or “What would you like to see instead?” turns feedback into a two-way dialogue.
Turn feedback into a next step
Reflection without action is just guilt.
Write down one concrete change and test it.
Feel free to share with your colleagues
Give feedback, ask questions or request new resources
