Seeking and acting on feedback regarding sustainable work practices is essential for
continuous improvement and ensuring that sustainability initiatives align with
organizational goals. To effectively collect and act on feedback, it's important to use the
right communication strategies, including employing appropriate language, active listening
techniques, suitable questioning methods, and engaging others. Here's how to do it:
1.
Structure and Language Appropriate to the Audience:
Tailor your message to the specific audience you're addressing. Use
language that the audience understands and relates to. Avoid technical
jargon that might be confusing.
Consider the background, expertise, and interests of your audience. Adapt
your message to resonate with their perspectives.
Use clear, concise, and non-biased language to ensure your message is
accessible and relatable to all.
2.
Active Listening Techniques:
Practice active listening by giving your full attention to the person providing
feedback. Maintain eye contact, nod, and use verbal cues (e.g., "I see," "I
understand," "Tell me more") to show you're engaged.
Avoid interrupting or formulating responses while the other person is
speaking. Let them express their thoughts fully.
Reflect on what is being said and ask clarifying questions to ensure you
understand the feedback accurately.
3.
Suitable Questioning Techniques:
Use open-ended questions to encourage detailed responses. For example,
ask, "Can you tell me more about your concerns with the sustainability
initiatives?"
Employ probing questions to delve deeper into specific aspects of the
feedback. For instance, ask, "What specific challenges did you encounter
during the implementation?"
Use scaling questions to gauge the intensity of feedback. Ask, "On a scale
from 1 to 10, how satisfied are you with our sustainability efforts?"
4.
Eliciting the Views of Others:
Create an open and welcoming environment where individuals feel
comfortable sharing their perspectives. Ensure that feedback is anonymous,
if necessary, to promote honest input.
Encourage employees, stakeholders, and team members to provide
feedback by emphasizing that their views are valued and can drive positive
change.
Utilize multiple channels for feedback collection, such as surveys,
suggestion boxes, one-on-one discussions, and team meetings, to reach a
diverse range of contributors.
5.
Clarifying or Confirming Understanding:
After receiving feedback, paraphrase or summarize the key points to
confirm your understanding and demonstrate active listening. Say, "So, if I
understand correctly, you're suggesting that..."
