The New “F-Word” in Our Business

One of the coolest parts about my job is that I get to listen to firm leaders and employees almost every day. I get to hear about the incredible strides being made by firms and how individuals are taking on big challenges. As a problem solver, I also learn a lot about the challenges you are facing and it’s surprising how similar they are from firm to firm. Hands down the most common challenge I hear about is the ongoing issue of broken feedback systems. I typically hear:

• We suck at giving feedback 
• We don’t give enough feedback or we don’t deliver it timely  
• We don’t document feedback  
• Our leaders are fearful of giving constructive feedback 

Sound familiar? This is not a new phenomenon. I’m often asked if this trend is due to the personality styles of accountants or because of the seasonally intense nature of our work, but I think we have been looking at it all wrong and need to rethink our definition of feedback. It’s happening all around us, practically all of the time.

To those craving more feedback: Yes, you deserve to know how you are performing. Think back to the last substantial interaction you had with a client or co-worker. I bet you have a general sense for how it went. We’ve gotten far too reliant upon a headline or warning telling us that feedback is coming. Feedback comes in a multitude of ways; project review notes, body language and facial expressions, and through invitations for more (or fewer) opportunities. It doesn’t have to be written and formal for feedback to be meaningful. If you want more, ask for it. Be as specific as possible when making your request, making it clear what component of the project, engagement, or behavior you want feedback on. The clearer the request, the clearer the response!

To those in a position to deliver feedback: As Brene’ Brown says, “Clear is kind”. We crave an understanding of how we are doing. Adult learners want guidance, not grades, and you taking a little time to share your attention to deliver a guiding message will go a long way. No news is not good news, it simply leaves the person filling in the gaps and telling themselves their own story about how they are doing and this never ends with more engaged or productive team members.

Spiirall offers several courses on delivering feedback. Check out the catalog to find the best option for you. Today is a great day to share some feedback! What are you waiting for?

Stay boundless,

Danielle