Fuel Innovation with Feedback

Let’s talk about something that makes most people squirm a little: feedback.

Yeah, I know—it’s not always fun. Whether you’re giving it or getting it, feedback can feel awkward, uncomfortable, or even downright painful. But here’s the thing: if you care about innovation (and I know you do), feedback is one of your most powerful tools.

Talk It Out, Level It Up

Here’s the deal. Innovation isn’t just about having brilliant ideas—it’s about improving them. And the fastest way to do that? Feedback. Real, honest, constructive feedback.

But let’s be clear: not all feedback is created equal. Some of it shuts people down. Some of it sparks new ideas. The trick is knowing how to give and receive it in a way that actually helps.

How to Give Feedback That Doesn’t Kill the Vibe

If you’re leading a team or working with collaborators, you’ve got to know how to give feedback that builds people up instead of tearing them down. Here’s how:

• Be curious, not critical. Instead of “Why did you do it like that?” try “Tell me more about your thinking here.” It opens up the conversation.
  
• Be specific. “This isn’t working” is vague and frustrating. Try “What if we tested this with a different audience?”
  
• Create safety. People need to feel safe to take risks. No blame, no shame—just learning.
  
• Balance it out. Don’t just point out what’s wrong. Highlight what’s working too. That’s how people grow.

How to Take Feedback Without Taking It Personally

Now let’s flip it. Getting feedback can sting, especially when you’ve poured your heart into something. But if you want to grow, you’ve got to lean into it.

• Listen to understand. Don’t jump into defense mode. Ask yourself, “What can I learn from this?”
  
• Ask questions. If something’s unclear, say so. “Can you give me an example?” works wonders.
  
• Say thanks. Even if it’s hard to hear. Gratitude keeps the door open for more (and better) feedback.
  
• Use it. Don’t just nod and move on. Take what you’ve learned and try something new.
  

Make Feedback Part of the Culture

Here’s the truth: one-off feedback sessions won’t cut it. If you want innovation to thrive, feedback needs to be part of your everyday culture.

That means:

• Regular check-ins (not just once a year)
  
• Peer-to-peer feedback (not just top-down)
  
• Safe spaces to share ideas and concerns
  

And if you’re a leader? You’ve got to walk the talk. Ask for feedback. Show how you use it. Make it normal.

Let’s Wrap This Up

Feedback isn’t the enemy of innovation—it’s the secret weapon. When we stop fearing it and start using it, we unlock better ideas, stronger teams, and smarter decisions.

 
Thanks for hanging out with me here.
This article was created with a little help from my favorite digital sidekicks—Microsoft Copilot, Adobe, and Microsoft Designer—because I believe tech should boost our creativity, not replace it.

Got thoughts on this topic? Ideas for what I should write about next? Hit that “Contact Me Today” button and let’s chat.

 
Want to Dive Deeper?
Here are a few great reads if you want to explore this topic more:

16 Best Practices for Giving and Receiving Constructive Feedback – Forbes
The Power of Feedback: A Catalyst for Growth – Forbes