I recently sat with an executive, we’ll call him Mark, to review his comprehensive feedback report, which comprised nearly 25 interviews with critical stakeholders. While most feedback contains some contradictory data, in his case, the differences were extreme. Some people described him as supportive and kind while others described him as self-serving and mean-spirited. He was regarded by some stakeholders as empowering and hands-off, even too distant, while others experienced him as oppressive and micromanaging.
How to Make Sense of Conflicting Feedback on Your Leadership
If you find yourself at the crossroads of widely divergent feedback, approach the conflicting messages with curiosity instead of resisting them. Those messages may be inviting you to a stronger, healthier version of yourself if you can get to the bottom of what’s behind them. Start by assuming that the conflict isn’t within the data, but more likely within yourself. The author presents four ways to interpret and act on wildly conflicting feedback. First, take time to understand the intentions behind your actions — they may not match up with your impact. Second, figure out who brings out your best and worst qualities — and why. Third, understand the values that are driving your actions. Finally, take time to be intentional about your choices — even the ones that are usually straightforward.