How do you build a feedback culture in your creative community?

1 Define your feedback goals

Before you ask for or offer feedback, you need to be clear about what you want to achieve. Are you looking for validation, suggestions, criticism, or guidance? Are you working on a specific aspect of your project, or do you want a general overview? Are you open to making changes, or are you just seeking confirmation? By defining your feedback goals, you can communicate them clearly to your feedback partners and avoid misunderstandings or frustrations.

2 Choose your feedback partners wisely

Not all feedback is created equal. Some feedback partners may be more knowledgeable, experienced, or supportive than others. Some may have different perspectives, styles, or preferences than you. Some may be more honest, constructive, or respectful than others. To build a feedback culture, you need to choose your feedback partners wisely. Look for people who share your vision, values, and goals, who have relevant skills and expertise, and who can give you honest and helpful feedback without being harsh or biased.

3 Use a feedback framework

A feedback framework is a set of guidelines or rules that help you structure and deliver feedback effectively. For example, you can use the sandwich method, which involves starting with a positive comment, followed by a constructive criticism, and ending with another positive comment. Or you can use the STAR method, which involves describing the Situation, Task, Action, and Result of the feedback scenario. Or you can use the SBI method, which involves describing the Situation, Behavior, and Impact of the feedback issue. Using a feedback framework can help you avoid vague, irrelevant, or personal feedback and focus on the facts, actions, and outcomes.

4 Be respectful and empathetic

Feedback is not only about what you say, but also how you say it. To build a feedback culture, you need to be respectful and empathetic to your feedback partners. Respect their work, their feelings, and their opinions. Empathize with their challenges, their goals, and their motivations. Use positive and supportive language, avoid blaming or judging, and acknowledge their strengths and achievements. Remember that feedback is not a competition, but a collaboration.

5 Ask for and act on feedback

Feedback is a two-way street. To build a feedback culture, you need to ask for and act on feedback as much as you give it. Asking for feedback shows that you value other people's opinions, that you are willing to learn and improve, and that you trust and respect your feedback partners. Acting on feedback shows that you are serious about your work, that you are open to change and growth, and that you appreciate and acknowledge your feedback partners' contributions. By asking for and acting on feedback, you can create a feedback loop that enhances your creativity and innovation.

6 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?