If there were one simple habit that could dramatically increase your self-awareness, sharpen your leadership skills, and protect you from career blind spots, would you do it?
Here’s the good news: there is. It’s asking for feedback.
Yet, too many leaders avoid it.
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Maybe it feels uncomfortable. Maybe you think if something were wrong, someone would tell you. But here’s the reality—leaders who don’t actively seek feedback risk operating with blind spots that can limit their impact and even derail their careers.
Feedback Is a Growth Accelerator
Self-awareness isn’t automatic. It’s something you build—and one of the fastest ways to develop it is through intentional feedback. The best leaders aren’t just open to feedback; they seek it out. They know that continuous growth requires real insight into how they’re perceived and where they can improve.
Three Keys to Getting the Feedback You Need
1️⃣ Be Specific
Don’t just ask, “How am I doing?” That’s too broad. Instead, ask targeted questions like:
➡️ “What’s one thing I could do better in leading this team?”
➡️ “How do you see me handling conflict? What could I improve?”
➡️ “If you were in my shoes, what would you focus on in the next 6 months?”
The more precise your question, the more actionable the feedback will be.
2️⃣ Seek Diverse Perspectives
You don’t just need feedback from your boss. Ask peers, direct reports, mentors—even those outside your immediate industry. Different perspectives help you see the full picture of how your leadership is landing.
3️⃣ Take Action
Feedback is only valuable if you do something with it. If people see that their input leads to growth and improvement, they’ll be even more willing to give you honest, constructive insights in the future. Show them their feedback matters.
Strong Leaders Don’t Fear Feedback—They Leverage It
Avoiding feedback won’t protect you. In fact, it does the opposite. It keeps you in the dark about how you’re truly showing up.
If you want to grow, start asking the right questions, listening with an open mind, and taking action. Your leadership—and your career—will be better for it.
💡Want to sharpen your leadership edge? My course Leading Self is designed to help you embrace feedback and use it as a tool for continuous improvement. Click here to learn more!
I'M ROOTING FOR YOU!
Laurie
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