Want Feedback? Ask for it!

Apr. 11

Written By Julie Entwistle MBA, BSc (OT), BSc.

Introduction

In my journey through academia and professional life, I've encountered numerous instances where feedback played a pivotal role. Whether it was during my time at McMaster University's Occupational Therapy program or in an MBA class, the importance of feedback became abundantly clear. In this blog post, I'll delve into why feedback is essential for personal and professional growth, drawing from my own experiences.

Feedback in Academia

During my time at McMaster University's Occupational Therapy program, feedback was ingrained into our daily routine. Despite the occasional awkwardness, the emphasis on giving and receiving feedback was recognized as crucial for fostering strong relationships and continuous improvement within healthcare teams.

In an MBA class I had a professor circulate feedback forms mid-semester and asked for our input on how the course was going. At the start of the following lecture, he summarized the feedback he received. He commented on what people liked and did not like about the class so far and told us how he was going to adjust his approach to meet the needs of his audience. Brilliant

Feedback in Personal Life

At home, we've implemented the "Stop, Start, Continue" exercise as a family. This exercise promotes open dialogue about our interactions and behaviors, fostering mindfulness, consideration, and approachability among family members.

Feedback in the Workplace

In my professional life, I've actively sought feedback from colleagues, clients, and customers. Whether through direct inquiries or anonymous questionnaires, gathering feedback has provided valuable insights into my performance and areas for improvement. Additionally, I've engaged in various assessment tools such as DISC, EQi, Moral Intelligence, and 360 reviews to gain a comprehensive understanding of my strengths and weaknesses as both a person and a leader.

The Importance of Feedback

Why is feedback so important to me? I am not as much interested in ensuring I am living up to the expectations of others, as I am interested in ensuring I am not naïve to my own faults. It is always easier to see the faults in others and yet how often do we really reflect on our own skills? I believe that the path to achieving my personal best involves understanding myself through my eyes and the eyes of those around me.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the journey towards personal and professional growth is significantly enhanced by embracing feedback. Whether in academia, family dynamics, or the workplace, feedback serves as a catalyst for continuous improvement and self-awareness. I encourage you to actively seek feedback in your own endeavors, as it holds the key to unlocking your full potential.

Personal Development

Julie Entwistle MBA, BSc (OT), BSc.

Julie Entwistle is a Certified FocalPoint Business Coach and works with business owners and professional service providers.

Julie helps her clients by building their business confidence so they can run, grow, and develop legacy practices that are focused and optimally successful. Julie knows that when professional service businesses do better, their clients also benefit. She knows this because she was one! Prior to joining FocalPoint, Julie was an independent owner of her own healthcare business before successfully merging, growing, and selling the practice. As an owner Julie had her own business coach, and this was a key element in her success.

Academically, Julie has degrees in Health Studies and Gerontology and Health Science (Occupational Therapy) from the University of Waterloo and McMaster, respectively, and an MBA from Wilfrid Laurier. She attended Queens University as a part-time Doctorate student prior to discontinuing her studies in 2023. Julie is also a Chartered Director and has Board and governance experience.

Julie grew up in a franchise family, so business is in her DNA. She has raised four daughters who are off writing their own stories as young adults. Julie is active and fit with a black belt in Karate, a competitive golf game, and enjoys many other sports. She believes in authenticity, showing kindness to all living things, and is happiest when helping others to build their own wealth and wellness.

Find Julie on LinkedIn at: linkedin.com/in/julieentwistle

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