Feedback & Continuous Growth

What feedback have you received recently that has influenced how you work?

Feedback is one of the most valuable tools for learning, improving, and building stronger relationships. High-performing teams create a culture where feedback is welcomed, shared respectfully, and viewed as an opportunity for growth rather than criticism. This month, reflect on how feedback has shaped your work and explore ways to strengthen feedback conversations across the team.

In Your 1:1

• Discuss a piece of feedback that influenced the employee's work or perspective.

• Explore how they applied that feedback and what they learned.

• Identify feedback they would benefit from receiving but haven't yet requested.

• Talk about opportunities to provide constructive feedback to others in a way that builds trust and strengthens relationships.

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Managers: What to Listen For

Employees who seek and act on feedback tend to grow more quickly and adapt more effectively to change. Listen for comments such as:

• "I haven't really received much feedback."

• "I'm not sure how I'm doing."

• "I don't want to hurt someone's feelings."

• "I usually wait until my annual review."

These comments may indicate opportunities to increase the frequency of coaching conversations, clarify expectations, and normalize feedback as an ongoing part of everyday work. Model curiosity by asking for feedback yourself and recognizing employees who demonstrate a growth mindset.

Optional Follow-Up Questions

• What feedback has had the greatest impact on your growth this year?

• Is there feedback you've been hoping to receive but haven't asked for?

• How comfortable do you feel giving constructive feedback to others?

• What makes feedback easier—or harder—for you to receive?

• How can I provide feedback in a way that best supports your development?

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Recommended Resources

🎧 Radical Candor: The Idea Behind the Book — Kim Scott (Lead to Win)

📖 Radical Candor by Kim Scott

💡 Reflection: Consider one piece of feedback you've received that changed your approach to work. What made it effective, and how can you apply those lessons when giving feedback to others?

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Ongoing Monthly Check-ins

🧠 AI Awareness (Year 2)
How is AI changing expectations in your role or field?

• Where do you think AI could meaningfully improve our service delivery?

• What ethical or mission-based considerations should guide our decisions?

• What AI capability do you think OIT needs to develop next?

🔐 Security Pulse (Year 2)
What risks do you think are increasing in higher education IT right now?

• What behavior changes do we need campus-wide?

• If a major incident occurred tomorrow, where would we struggle most?

• What proactive measure would you advocate for?

☘️ Campus Updates (Year 2)
What trends or priorities are you seeing across campus that may affect OIT in the next 1–3 years?

• What partnership feels underdeveloped?

• What campus narrative are we not paying enough attention to?

• How can we strengthen trust as a strategic partner?