Empowering Women in the Workplace: Communication Strategies for Giving and Receiving Actionable Feedback

Receiving feedback in the workplace can sting a little, especially if it’s a bit on the negative side. We get sensitive when it feels like it calls to question our competence and capabilities as a professional or just a functioning member of society. However, to grow in any aspect of your life, professional or personal, receiving feedback whether you want it or not is going to happen. What you can control, however, is how you receive and implement said feedback especially when you know it is constructive and not just harsh unnecessary criticism.

In today's dynamic workplace, effective communication skills are crucial for success, particularly for women striving to navigate the professional landscape. In this article, I explore communication strategies tailored specifically to empower women in the workplace, focusing on tips for giving and receiving actionable feedback. From cultivating a confident communication style to navigating challenging conversations with grace and empathy, these strategies will equip women with the tools they need to thrive in their careers while fostering a culture of inclusion and growth. Let's explore some actionable tips to help women navigate this essential skill while fostering an inclusive environment:

· Cultivate a Growth Mindset: Both giving and receiving feedback require a growth mindset. Approach feedback as an opportunity for growth and improvement, rather than criticism. Embrace the mindset that feedback is a valuable tool for personal and professional development.

· Be Specific and Actionable: When giving feedback, be specific about the behaviour or action you're addressing. Instead of vague statements, provide concrete examples and actionable suggestions for improvement. Similarly, when receiving feedback, ask for specific examples and suggestions to help you understand how to make positive changes.

· Practice Active Listening: Effective feedback relies on active listening. When receiving feedback, listen attentively without interrupting. Clarify any points you don't understand and ask questions for further clarification. When giving feedback, ensure the other person feels heard and understood by actively listening to their perspective.

· Focus on the Behavior, Not the Person: Feedback should focus on specific behaviors or actions, rather than personal characteristics. When giving feedback, avoid making generalizations or judgments about the individual's character. Instead, focus on the impact of their behaviour on the team or organization. When receiving feedback, separate your identity from the behaviour being addressed.

· Express Appreciation: Feedback is more effective when it's delivered with empathy and appreciation. Start by acknowledging the person's strengths and contributions before addressing areas for improvement. When receiving feedback, express gratitude for the insights and perspectives shared, even if it's challenging to hear.

·Seek Feedback Regularly: Don't wait for formal performance reviews to seek feedback. Proactively solicit feedback from colleagues, mentors, and supervisors regularly. By seeking feedback proactively, you demonstrate a commitment to growth and improvement.

· Follow Up and Act: After receiving feedback, take time to reflect on the insights shared and develop an action plan for improvement. Follow up with the person who provided feedback to discuss your progress and any additional support you may need. Similarly, when giving feedback, follow up to ensure the individual understands the expectations and has the resources needed to succeed.

As we celebrate International Women's Day and strive to inspire inclusion in the workplace, mastering the art of giving and receiving feedback is essential for women's professional growth and empowerment. By cultivating a growth mindset, practising active listening, and focusing on specific behaviours, women can harness the power of feedback to drive their success and contribute to a more inclusive workplace culture. Let's commit to supporting and empowering each other through constructive feedback, creating a workplace where all women can thrive and succeed.