We spent a great deal of time in this module talking about giving feedback. What happens when the shoe is on the other foot and you are in the position of receiving feedback? This might occur in those formal occasions, perhaps a semiannual or annual performance review, or even informal occasions where you're receiving feedback from your manager. How much you think about preparing for that in such a way that it is supportive. And many of the same concepts that we've talked about in providing feedback also apply to receiving feedback. In particular, I hope that by this time you understand clearly that providing feedback requires significant preparation and thought. You can't go into a feedback session without having organized your thoughts, what is the message, what's the setting, to make sure that they're congruent and consistent so that you effectively transmit the message. Being on the receiving end is no different, you have to be prepared. You have to understand what work needs to be done ahead of time before you actually go into that session. In many cases you might actually have described your accomplishments or goals before you ever go into that session. Having a clear picture of those is important so that you are prepared to present your message on your own behalf. As you receive feedback, also listen actively as we described in the case of providing feedback. Here again, you may have to ask clarifying questions, probing questions or elaboration so that you clearly understand the message that's being sent. You should never leave a feedback session being unclear about what was said and any actions that need to be taken. As you approach receiving feedback, tune into your own emotional state. Are you on one of those higher mood states or a lower one? If you're on the higher one, you're going to be more receptive to receiving that feedback and aware of where you are so that you can keep your emotions in check and receive those messages effectively. As I said with active listening, ask the right probing questions. Make sure that, again, you have clarity and understanding before you leave the session. Receiving feedback is all about getting the information that you need so that you can reshape your goals and your actions so that you can become more effective.
