Feedback is a two-edged sword: we may hear compliments and/or we may hear criticism. Both are valuable.
Sincere praise reassures us that we are on the right track. It sends us forward to brainstorm with new contacts and old. It means we’re contributing to their well-being and encourages us to keep on keeping on, to create new materials, to gather and share information.
Then there is criticism. Even the word had a different timbre.
Criticism often shakes us up. ‘What? You mean not everyone like what I said? or, “Some people didn’t gain anything from what I shared. Oh my!”
True, we can’t please everyone, but we should give people something they can take away and use. Also true, criticism gives us a heads-up that maybe we need to re-examine our ideas and make them more interesting or interactive.
Much as we like praise, we often learn more from constructive criticism. When the words are spoken with compassion they brush away our complacency and make us pause, look at ourselves and look at whatever we’re sharing.
AS a writer/author, I face constructive criticism from my critique groups. At first it stings. Then it becomes something I use to improve my writing. As a presenter, I seek feedback to improve and upgrade my materials and information.
The worst situation is no feedback. It implies what was written or spoken had such a low value it wasn’t worth a person’s time to comment. Therefore, I encourage you to take the time to share your honest reactions with people when asked. Most appreciate your input. And, it’s important to take the time to lift others, build their skills and let people know where there is room for improvement.
Your thoughts are welcome.