I know, just what you want to be reading on a Friday afternoon.  But I’ve been doing a lot of these lately and want to pass along a few tips that I share with clients.

First, set the intention to listen and digest the information in the context of how you are perceived.

This is different from who you are.

If a 360 debrief is done well, it will illuminate your many strengths as well as where you can stretch and grow into more of yourself at your best.  The exemplary leaders that I work with all listen carefully for where they can refine and where they can get better, quickly acknowledging the feedback that is unsavory.  They don’t resist.

Next, turn the information into action and make a plan that will demonstrate different behavior.  No matter the feedback – from micromanaging to arrogance and rigidity to not delegating effectively – create a plan to address it.  A good coach will know what to recommend and which levers to pull.  And then steady, steady, steady, I tell clients.  Perception takes a bit to change.

Lastly, continue to seek and welcome feedback as you make changes.  I recommend to clients that we meet with their superior or select Board members for regular check-ins during the engagement to hear what they’re hearing.  Sometimes, I’ll check in again with a couple of those original key stakeholders at the 3 month mark and then again at 6.  This continued input provides you with invaluable, real time feedback as you do things differently.  You’ll hear what’s moving the needle, what still needs attention.  Around the 3 month mark, you should hear that the fruits of your labor are paying off and that perception is beginning to change.  Suspicion that the changes are temporary is normal, don’t let it discourage you.  With consistent effort, the 9 month mark usually reveals that suspicion has evaporated, and you’ll experience far greater effectiveness and ease in your leadership and enhanced confidence in your abilities.

None of this is possible without that first step of the intention to listen.

And perhaps counterintuitively, it sets the stage for your success.

By receiving rather than resisting the difficult things, you signal that you can be given more responsibility, bigger roles, because you want – and are able – to become more.

To work with me directly as your leadership coach and confidant, go here for more information on different ways of working together.  My next openings for executive coaching are in October.  And there is only one opening remaining for the bespoke Private Guidance Magnificent Leadership® Ascension Program for 2024.  To inquire about mutual fit for this program or the others, drop me a note and we can talk about whether this is the right program for you.

And if you want to spend some time together and dip a toe in the water, we’ve opened 5 more seats at the Magnificent Leadership® Annual Event in Raleigh on October 19+20 where we’ll have guest speakers, small group working sessions, and time with yours truly.  Go here to apply for registration.  Questions?  sarah@sarah-levitt.com   I think we have 2 seats remaining.  I mentioned the luxury property, outstanding food, and cocktail reception, yes?

And if you want me in your back pocket over the course of a year without a big commitment from your calendar, this is one of my most popular offerings.  Strategic and tactical.  Prep Work before each quarterly session.  And unlimited access to me.  Next openings are Q4.  This is my most accessible offering at 25K for the entire year.

And.  As we look toward Q4, it’s time to get your team positioned for Q1.  For more on customized, strategic team sessions to build a Self-Correcting Team℠ that can function with greater autonomy and accountability, contact me: sarah@sarah-levitt.com  My next openings are in late October/early November.  To hear what clients are saying, go here.