The mistakes that leaders make, and why feedback is critical
January 12th, 2009 | Published in 360 Degree Feedback, Feedback, Measuring Performance, Work Life Balance
In this interview, the former CEO of a company listed on the New York Stock Exchange, Medtronic, gives his views on leadership and the mistakes that leaders make.
These include:
- Not listening to what other people are telling you: “I think the idea of 360 degree feedback, where you get feedback from your subordinates and your peers, is the most valuable thing you can do”.
- Thinking and reflecting on the feedback you get: “You need to ask, “What did I do well? What didn’t I do? What turned me on? What didn’t I like?” These are important questions”.
- Spot ‘imposters’ - people who make a great impression but who weren’t pulling their weight behind the scenes, in which case go “back to the 360 degree feedback…I made it policy when I was at Medtronic never to promote anyone unless I had feedback on how that person acted as a leader and how they treated other people”.
