In this episode, we explore how engineers can get better at giving and receiving feedback at work. We share real stories about both successes and failures in our careers, showing how feedback helped us grow. Our hosts share their personal experiences and the lessons they learned along the way. You'll learn practical tips and examples that will help you handle feedback better in your engineering career. Whether you've been an engineer for years or are just starting out, this episode will help you use feedback to become better at your job.

"Feedback is a two-way street - both giving and receiving require practice."

Timeline:

00:00:00 - Welcome and introduction 00:00:14 - Discussion about new team member and handling feedback 00:01:52 - Addressing negative feedback and learning from mistakes 00:04:30 - Personal experience with feedback struggles 00:09:00 - Importance of owning mistakes and team leadership 00:17:00 - Creating psychological safety in teams 00:23:00 - Role of engineers in society and responsibility 00:26:00 - Supervisors' role in feedback culture 00:30:31 - Episode summary and key takeaways

Watch it: https://youtu.be/MJuYVeoxZh8

Lessons and Takeaways

Start tracking feedback: Begin a feedback journal to document both positive and negative feedback you receive. Reflect on it regularly to identify patterns and areas for growth.

Practice active listening: During your next feedback session, focus on truly understanding the other person's perspective without interrupting. Summarize their points to ensure clarity.

Create a safe environment: Build trust in your team by fostering psychological safety where everyone feels comfortable sharing honest feedback without fear.

Own your mistakes: When receiving feedback about errors, take responsibility and outline clear steps to prevent similar issues in the future.

Adopt the "we" mindset: Frame feedback in a collaborative way by focusing on team solutions and shared goals rather than assigning blame.

"Take time to process feedback before responding."

Take Action:

Start a feedback journal this week

Practice active listening in your next feedback session

Schedule regular reflection time for both successes and areas for improvement

Links and References

Master Your End-of-Year Goal Planning: A Guide for Engineering Professionals