Be Specific

It’s easy to overlook the role you play in the quality of your team’s feedback. If you literally ask them to “share your thoughts” about a process, situation, or issue, it will be hard to know whether they’ve offered their best ideas.

Instead, take the time to provide context. Explain why your request is important, what you’re concerned about, and how you think things might be better. Set up the discussion by asking for input and lead with, “Specifically, I would like you to look at XYZ.” Be sure you give a deadline.

Taking the time to present your request appropriately will increase the quality of the input you receive tenfold. Remember, the quality of your input directly impacts the quality of your output.