Know Thyself Exercise 4: Do-it-yourself 360 Feedback tool

Summary:

360 feedback tools can be pricey, or offered only via businesses, or both. So I developed a simple, practical, do-it-yourself 360 tool for myself, and now for you too. With this, you can gather feedback from a wide range of people you know and trust, to get an outside-in view of yourself.

Instructions:

Step 1 - Select feedback audience:
Identify 10-15 people who meet the following criteria:
- You value their opinion. You will trust & listen to what they have to say.
- They will be honest and direct, even if you don't like it. Avoid nice & polite people: you want candor.
- Ensure diversity: include your manager(s) / superiors, 2-4 peers, 2-4 reports / subordinates, 2-4 professional connections, 2-4 personal connections.

Step 2 Send template email: To each person identified, send their own individual email following the email template below (feel free to personalise / edit it). Include a 2 week deadline. 2 days before the deadline, send a reminder to those who have not responded.

Step 3 Consolidate feedback: Create an excel table: on the lines list down each question item (Strength a, b, c...); on the columns list each respondent. Gather all the feedback into a single table. Afterwards, consolidate it into a readable charts: See screenshots attached as template examples. “Recurrence”: how often was it mentioned, “Key words”: as used by the feedback givers.

Step 4 Analyze, reflect & discuss: with someone you trust (coach, mentor, colleague, manager, friend, etc.). Tip: have her/him read the outcome and ask them for their first impressions and insights… without you saying anything: remain in silence, take notes and just understand their reading… only afterwards discuss.

Template email:

Subject: [Recipient's Name] feedback request: your input needed

Dear [Recipient's Name],

I trust this email finds you well.

I am in the process of seeking comprehensive feedback from people whose opinions I trust, to enhance my personal and professional growth. I am reaching out to you because I highly value your views and insights. Please be as transparent and candid in answering the following questions about me:

Strengths: In your view, what are my top five strengths?
1
2
3
4
5

Development areas: In your view, what are 5 areas where I can improve & develop further?
1
2
3
4
5

Skills: In your view, what top 5 skills am I experienced and good at?
1
2
3
4
5

In order to become even better, what behaviours and actions should I
Stop doing:
Start doing:
Continue doing:

Your honest feedback is crucial for my personal reflection and development: please be direct and feel free to share any insights or observations you believe will be beneficial for me. I will keep your answers confidential to myself.

I would appreciate it if you could provide your feedback by [two weeks from the date of this email]. I genuinely appreciate your time and effort in sharing your thoughts and I look forward to hearing from you.

Thank you in advance for your thoughtful contribution.

Kind regards,

[Your Name]