A few years ago during a training session for a self-defense class, we were each assigned to a team of partners. I was baffled by the choices made for each team. I had little in common with any of them, and they seemed to be a vast range of skills from beginner to expert. I couldn’t figure out what the trainer was trying to accomplish by creating these odd groups of people. Then he told us. The goal of the partnership was to find our blind spots.
The people we regularly train with or work with, know how we operate and become just as blind to our weaknesses as we do. Those closest to us tend to see only the good and prefer not to focus on the negatives. This is why it is so important to get feedback from a varied group of people. They can offer you unbiased truth. This is what helps you grow and succeed.
It was only during these sessions that I was stretched outside of my comfort zone. I was introduced to new skills and challenges. I was forced to practice new moves. It also told me a lot about my opposition. Feedback was also the thing gave me the most motivation.
There are multiple ways to obtain feedback. You can host surveys, polls or even open yourself up to reviews. Prepare yourself to listen to the feedback effectively. Then you can use the information you receive to better your product or services. Use it to better establish your brand and carve out your niche in the marketplace.
The power of feedback comes from the realization that your most prized asset are those who benefit from your products and services. Their opinion and their needs are what matter. When you take that into consideration, it changes everything. A relationship is formed, not just a business deal.
One of the unexpected perks of asking for feedback is that you get to hear other people’s innovative and creative ideas. Some of my best products came from other people’s suggestions. Had I not been open to hearing them I would have missed out. Besides, they are the ones who use it. It only makes sense to include them in the process.