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Life-Long Learning and Growth
Your book explores a critical yet often overlooked skill: the art of receiving feedback and teaches readers how to use feedback to grow and find success. What was the idea, or spark, that first set off the need to write Receptive and Ready?
We have been teaching managers and leaders for over a decade the right skills to deliver feedback but have rarely touched on the best ways to receive feedback. That’s primarily because most of our students are adult learners who already manage people. (We both teach at the Center for Professional and Executive Development, Wisconsin School of Business, University of Wisconsin-Madison). Over lunch, we wondered if we could augment our message about developmental input and what to do with it by focusing on receivers. And that’s how the book was born.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
First, developmental input, when received and implemented, is a personal and career accelerator that should be embraced eagerly. Second, receivers of developmental input are not in control of “when” the feedback arrives and so must be continually prepared with the proper mindset when it does. Third, there are key skills that receivers should develop in order to absorb and practically use feedback, including self-regulation, emotional intelligence, and active listening.
What is one thing that people point out after reading your book that surprises you?
We have some readers comment they didn’t realize how much control they do (or could have) when receiving developmental feedback, and that they (not the feedback provider) had the greater accountability on what to do “next” with it.
What is one thing that you hope readers take away from Receptive and Ready?
We hope readers will understand that the principles and behaviors highlighted in Receptive and Ready are about life-long learning and growth.
Artell Smith Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Instagram | X (Twitter) | Website | Amazon
Betsy Hagan Links: GoodReads | Amazon
Authors Artell Smith and Betsy Hagan present Receptive and Ready, an empowering companion for transforming feedback into a catalyst for success.
The book is meticulously written and contains skills to help readers absorb feedback confidently and clearly. Amid the noise of distractions, the authors narrow the focus on what is important for your growth, showing you how to recognize and act on valuable input through practical insights and relatable scenarios. They gracefully guide readers on how to navigate less helpful or poorly delivered feedback, extracting key learnings that will help you flourish.
Most of us view feedback as a hurdle and are afraid to take criticism. With this book, you will discover how to see it as a powerful tool to enhance your self-improvement techniques, helping you move forward with your highest aspirations.
Receptive and Ready is an asset that will help you on your path of self-improvement, enabling you to achieve your highest aspirations. It shines a light on what truly matters, ensuring you maximize each interaction in both your professional and personal life. With the skills presented in this book, you’re bound to stay focused and resilient while being prepared to advance in your journey.
The book contains many concepts you can incorporate into your strategies for positive thinking, leadership development, and personal growth strategies. It will help you overcome the fear of failure and develop effective communication skills in the pursuit of career development.
So, what are you waiting for? Sow the seed for success with Receptive and Ready.
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