Ask for Advice, not Feedback
Asking for advice rather than feedback can lead to more effective and constructive input from colleagues.
Summary
Research across multiple experiments, including in executive education settings, shows that people receive more actionable input when they ask for advice instead of feedback. This simple shift in language can overcome the negative connotations often associated with feedback, leading to more open and productive conversations about performance and improvement.
The idea
Feedback has a negative connotation in our culture. When asking for feedback at work, it’s better to ask for advice.
The Evidence
Across four experiments—including a field experiment conducted in an executive education classroom—researchers found that people received more effective input when they asked for advice rather than feedback.
Actions to Take
Next time you are looking for feedback on your performance, a presentation or otherwise, simply ask the person for advice: How would you approach this? Or would have approached that?
Sources
https://www.hbs.edu/faculty/Pages/item.aspx?num=56868https://hbr.org/2019/09/why-asking-for-advice-is-more-effective-than-asking-for-feedback
Ask for Advice, not Feedback
Enhance Performance Insights Through Strategic Questioning
Summary
Research across multiple experiments, including in executive education settings, shows that people receive more actionable input when they ask for advice instead of feedback. This simple shift in language can overcome the negative connotations often associated with feedback, leading to more open and productive conversations about performance and improvement.
Ask for Advice, not Feedback
Enhance Performance Insights Through Strategic Questioning
Summary
Research across multiple experiments, including in executive education settings, shows that people receive more actionable input when they ask for advice instead of feedback. This simple shift in language can overcome the negative connotations often associated with feedback, leading to more open and productive conversations about performance and improvement.
Ask for Advice, not Feedback
Enhance Performance Insights Through Strategic Questioning
Citations
Podcast
Asking for advice rather than feedback can lead to more effective and constructive input from colleagues.
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