What do you do if your feedback is not well-received in a business networking environment?

Navigating the choppy waters of business networking can be tricky, especially when the feedback you offer isn't met with open arms. It's a familiar scene: you're at a networking event, mingling with peers, and you decide to provide some constructive criticism. Suddenly, the atmosphere cools, and you realize your advice hasn't gone down as well as you hoped. What do you do in such a scenario? This article aims to guide you through the process of managing the situation with grace and professionalism, ensuring that your networking efforts remain fruitful and your professional relationships intact.

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1 Reflect First

Before reacting to the negative reception of your feedback, take a moment to reflect. Consider the possibility that your delivery might not have been as clear or tactful as intended. It's essential to assess your approach and the context in which the feedback was given. Were you respectful and sensitive to the other person's perspective? Sometimes, it's not what you say but how you say it that can make a difference. Use this reflection period as a learning opportunity to refine your communication skills for future interactions.

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Steve Reid

Leveraging 20 years of experience in entrepreneurial development to help individual and organisations build strong, resilient businesses
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Timing also plays a role in feedback The information may be clear and correct, but it may not be the best of timing. Consider further if the feedback should be public or private

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2 Seek Understanding

If your feedback wasn't well-received, seek to understand why. Engage in a calm and open conversation with the other party, expressing genuine curiosity about their perspective. Ask clarifying questions to grasp their point of view and acknowledge any missteps in your approach. This demonstrates your willingness to listen and can often turn a negative situation into a constructive dialogue. It's crucial to maintain a non-defensive stance and show that your intent was to be helpful, not critical.

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Steve Reid

Leveraging 20 years of experience in entrepreneurial development to help individual and organisations build strong, resilient businesses
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I agree with seeking understanding first (a great principle from 7 habits of highly effective people) It requires you to separate the message from the messenger Be objective and open in your approach Seek to understand over the “need to be right or to explain”

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3 Apologize Sincerely

An apology can go a long way in mending fences after your feedback has been poorly received. Offer a sincere apology if your message came across as harsh or judgmental. Make it clear that your intention was not to offend or belittle, but to contribute positively. A genuine apology can diffuse tension and show that you value the relationship more than being right. Remember, an apology is not an admission of wrongdoing, but rather an expression of empathy for how your feedback was perceived.

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4 Adjust Your Feedback

After understanding the other party's perspective and apologizing if necessary, consider adjusting your feedback. Tailor your advice to be more palatable, focusing on specific, actionable suggestions rather than broad criticisms. Highlight the positive aspects before delving into areas for improvement. This balanced approach can make your feedback more acceptable and demonstrates that you're invested in the other person's success. It's about providing support and guidance, not just pointing out flaws.

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5 Offer Support

Moving forward from the initial misunderstanding, offer your support. Let the individual know that you're available to help them address any challenges they may be facing. By offering assistance, you're reinforcing the idea that your feedback comes from a place of wanting to see them succeed. This can help rebuild any trust that may have been damaged and establishes you as a collaborative and supportive member of the networking community.

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6 Maintain Relationships

Finally, focus on maintaining and nurturing the relationship despite the hiccup. Continue to engage with the individual at networking events and through professional channels. Show interest in their work and provide encouragement. By continuing to interact positively, you demonstrate that one instance of poorly received feedback doesn't define your relationship. Over time, consistent positive interactions can help restore confidence and ensure that your networking connections remain strong and beneficial.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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What do you do if your feedback is not well-received in a business networking environment?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Reflect First

2 Seek Understanding

3 Apologize Sincerely

4 Adjust Your Feedback

5 Offer Support

6 Maintain Relationships

7 Here’s what else to consider

Business Networking

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What do you do if your feedback is not well-received in a business networking environment?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Reflect First

2 Seek Understanding

3 Apologize Sincerely

4 Adjust Your Feedback

5 Offer Support

6 Maintain Relationships

7 Here’s what else to consider

Business Networking

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