I don't watch
much TV. However, there are a few programmes I like to watch. One such programmes
is the popular Airtel Super
Singer on Vijay
TV.
For those of
you who are not aware of this programme, it is a Singing competition based TV
show, which goes through many
rounds and
levels with elimination at different levels. The programme stretches to almost
a year and culminates to a grand
finale, where
one of the participants gets to win the prestigious“Airtel Super Singer” title
and a big prize.
I like to watch
the programme, not just because I am fond of listening to songs, but it is
because I like the way the panel of judges give comment or feedback about the performance,
to the participants. What we usually find in this programme is the
feedback starts
with a big dose of appreciation on the participant's strong areas. Then they
gently touch upon the weakpoints .The new
terminology to describe one ' s we ak point s i s “Ar e a s for improvement”
which is a positive phrase, to use while giving feedback. Amazingly it works
well, because it does not hurt a person's ego. The areas of improvement could
be the voice pitch, squeakiness of the voice, breathe control, pronunciation or
whatsoever. The work of the judges is to
motivate the
participants to perform better and at the same time, bring to their awareness
their shortfalls. The feedback given is often very specific, laser clear and sharp.
This type of specific feedback gives ample opportunity for the participant to improve
on those areas. And the feedback again ends in a positive note. The best part
is they give this feedback in a soft and caring tone, with a warm smile. What I
have interestingly observed is that the participants who take this feedback
seriously and work
on it, often
make it to the top 10. Also, it is truly amazing
to see that
some of the participants, who are not so good
at the entry
stage of the competition, eventually transform themselves into excellent
singers, by making conscious effort to change or improve on the areas identified
as areas of improvement.
I am a member
of learning organization called Toastmasters. Toastmasters is all about
practicing public speaking in front of a small group of audience, who are fellow
members. At the end of the speech, one of the members evaluates the speech.
Here too the typical sandwich technique feedback is adopted. So, what is this sandwich
technique? Like a sandwich which has the spicing filling in between and two
bread slices at the side.
The feedback
starts with positive comments, then talks about the areas of improvement and
again closes with a positive comment. This type of feedback, has really helped
members of our club to become better speakers. Feedback is not criticism. There
is a big difference between plain negative criticism and well-intended
genuine
feedback. Therefore when someone gives you a feedback, never take it as
criticism. Never take it personal. Take it on your performance. Feedback is a way
of appraising your performance. Feedback is necessary for growth. Believe me,
not many people take active interest in you to point out your mistakes. Be thankful
to them, rather than condemning them. People who try to defend themselves when
feedback is given to them, lose the opportunity to learn and grow. When we tend
to reject feedbacks or justify our point, even the people who are genuinely
interested in our growth, may stop giving feedbacks, fearing not to hurt us.
So, next time
when someone gives you a feedback, be open to hear. Ask them to be more
specific, as to what they think could be improved. Find out what they felt was
good and what they felt that you could have done better. This will give scope
for you to improve upon yourself. Even if you are doing it well, you can see
how you can better your best. Remember, perfection is always a moving target. Be
willing to embrace feedback and growth will be willing to embrace you.
Happy Reading,
D.Senthil Kannan
Article Dated Sep'13