How to Spot the Difference Between Haters and Helpers as a New Leader

Since I am a leadership coach I wanted to chat chat about something real important today—feedback! As a first-time leader, you’re going to hear all kinds of feedback about your work and your team. Some of it will be helpful, some of it... not so much. So how do you know what’s helpful and what’s just bringing you down? Let’s break it down!

What is Destructive Feedback?
Destructive feedback is the kind that just makes you feel bad. It’s mean, unkind, and doesn’t give you any way to get better. It’s like hitting a pothole on your road trip—jarring and not helpful at all! If someone says, “You’re just not good enough for this job,” that’s destructive feedback. It doesn’t tell you how to improve; it’s just hurtful.

What is Constructive Feedback?
Constructive feedback, on the other hand, is meant to help you grow and get better. It’s like having a GPS reroute you when there’s traffic ahead—it keeps you moving forward! Constructive feedback sounds like this: “You did a great job, but next time try speaking a little slower.” It’s specific, helpful, and doesn’t tear you down. You leave feeling like you can improve, not defeated.

How to Tell the Difference:
Check the Tone: If the feedback feels harsh or angry, it’s probably destructive. If it’s calm and kind, that’s constructive.
Look for Details: Constructive feedback gives you specific ways to improve. Destructive feedback? It’s usually vague and just makes you feel bad without telling you how to fix things.
Is It About Growth?: Constructive feedback helps you grow. It’s meant to build you up and make you better. Destructive feedback? It’s all about tearing you down.

What Should You Do?
As a first-time leader, remember that not all feedback is helpful! When you get feedback, ask yourself: Is this helping me grow, or is it just making me feel bad? If it’s destructive, let it go. And if it’s constructive, take it and run with it—you’ve got this!

Keep pushing forward, Roadtrippers! 🌟 You’re on the right path! 🖤✌🏾