Over the past year I was fortunate enough to have a strong Non Commissioned Officer and friend who told me the truth- All the time and for the benefit of the organization…actually, for the benefit of the nation.
I had a variety of responsibilities. I led the PA team. I was the spokesman. I advised the command. I led and worked with IO. Lots going on as we worked to protect our country.
In each stage, our NCO gave me feedback, good and bad. “The team needs to hear from you on this subject.” “That was terrible, do it again.” “Your hair is messed up.” “Nice work, let’s do it again in a week.” “Powerful comments, you were right on.” “What you said is confusing, maybe say it like this.”
Sometimes the feedback was harsh and shook my confidence. Sometimes the feedback seemed overly positive but I took it.
I got better with every comment.
A few things here:
PAOs owe this same type of feedback to their command teams on anything related to communication. Each time my commanders get done speaking they say, “ok Dave, let me have it.” This enriches your relationship with your command teams and makes your organization better.
You must find this person in your organization. Everyone may not be accustomed to providing a leader raw feedback. Find the person who is ready. In my past it’s often been a civilian. This time it was a great NCO.
Trust. You’ve got to trust and be trusted. Feedback is public and private. This is about culture. It’s not personal.
Conversation. It’s a conversation. There is nothing saying anyone has to accept any feedback, have a conversation about it and start with why,
This isn’t easy but it’s essential. We are all the heroes of our own story, get someone in your life to make you better.
Now go and do likewise.
Photo by Spc. Tynisha Daniel
