Hello aspiring intrapreneur! In this article we’re going to talk about a key trait that all great intrapreneurs have in common: they’re not afraid to seek feedback. In fact, they actively pursue it.
This is part 8 in a series of articles taking a look at the eight key traits that stand out in intrapreneurs. Let’s dive into why feedback is so essential, the benefits you’ll reap from it, and how you can start embracing feedback today!
The Power of Feedback for Intrapreneurs
As an intrapreneur, you’re venturing into the unknown, taking on innovative projects that have never been done before.
Since there’s no roadmap to follow, you’ll need to rely on qualitative feedback to make decisions, refine your approach, and keep moving forward. This feedback comes from various sources, such as your colleagues, mentors, and even customers, each providing unique insights that can help shape your projects. That’s why developing a solid feedback habit is crucial for success. By constantly questioning what you’re doing and seeking input from others, you’ll discover better ways to innovate and grow.
The power of feedback for intrapreneurs goes beyond simply gathering information. It also fosters a culture of continuous improvement and learning within your organization.
When you demonstrate a willingness to listen and adapt based on feedback, you set a strong example for your team. This openness to change encourages others to adopt the same mindset, creating an environment where everyone is constantly striving to improve and innovate. In the long run, this feedback-driven culture will not only make you a more effective intrapreneur, but it will also help your organization stay ahead of the competition and embrace the ever-evolving business landscape.
The Benefits of Feedback
When you actively seek feedback, you’ll experience a whole host of advantages, including:
- Improved decision-making
Listening to others’ perspectives will help you make more informed choices, leading to better project outcomes. - Faster learning
Feedback accelerates your learning process, allowing you to spot and correct mistakes more quickly. - Enhanced creativity
When you’re open to new ideas, you’ll find inspiration from unexpected sources. - Stronger collaboration
Encouraging an environment where feedback is valued fosters trust and teamwork among colleagues.
Facing the Fear of Feedback
It’s completely normal to feel apprehensive about seeking feedback.
Many of us fear criticism or feel vulnerable when we open ourselves up to others’ opinions. You’re not alone in these feelings; it’s a common concern shared by people in various stages of their careers.
Remember, though, that feedback is a valuable tool for growth, not a personal attack. As you start to see feedback as an opportunity for development rather than a source of judgment, you’ll begin to embrace it more readily.
Empathising with others’ concerns is important when receiving feedback. We know from experience that it’s difficult to put ourselves in a position where we may hear something we don’t want to. However, facing this fear head-on and being receptive to constructive criticism will ultimately make you a more resilient and adaptable intrapreneur.
The more you practice seeking and receiving feedback, the less intimidating it becomes. Over time, you’ll find that this vulnerability can actually be a source of strength, helping you grow both personally and professionally.
Overcoming Feedback Fears
Ready to conquer your fear of feedback and become a more effective intrapreneur? Here are three simple things you can do to start embracing input from others:
- Start small
Don’t be afraid to ask for feedback on minor aspects of your work. As you get more comfortable, you can move on to seeking input on more significant decisions. If you receive positive feedback, that’s great. But never stop there. Always be looking for ways to improve. You could try digging deeper into the positive feedback with questions like, “What’s one thing I’m doing at the moment that you’d like to see me do more of?” or try to uncover your weaknesses with questions like, “What can I do to improve my performance even more?” or “What more do I need to do to position myself for promotion?” - Be open and receptive
When you ask for feedback, genuinely listen and consider the perspectives of others. Show appreciation for their input, even if you don’t always agree. Take time to reflect. If you find you receive feedback you don’t agree with, try asking others specifically about that feedback to see if they concur. If there’s a consistent pattern, then maybe you’re the one who’s mistaken. - Make it a habit
Schedule regular times to seek feedback from colleagues, mentors, or even customers. This consistent practice will help you get better at accepting and acting on feedback.
The Wrap
Innovation and growth don’t happen in a vacuum – they require input from others. As an intrapreneur, seeking feedback is a foundational skill that will help you navigate the unknown, learn from your experiences, and improve your projects. So don’t be afraid to ask for input, listen with an open mind, and embrace the power of feedback. By doing so, you’ll become a more effective and successful intrapreneur.
Now go out there and get the feedback you need to make your ideas soar!
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If you’re passionate about becoming more intrapreneurial you’ll definitely want to check-out the Intrapreneurship Mastery Training Course. This cohort-based coaching and training programme offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to develop the entrepreneurial mindset and skillset of attendees. Or, contact us if you have specific needs you want to discuss.
