In the first article, we focused on how to get the people around you to share their views and opinions with you on what and how you could do better. However, the management.about.com website also has tips for us on how to acquire more general types of feedback.
Watch a video starring you
This is great for improving your presentation skills. Learn something about yourself and the impression you make. Ask an instructor for some insights. A coach can point out things you should focus on.
Attend a leadership course or personality assessment
This is a great idea, since many courses include assessments of some kind. You can get some feedback from your peers in the class and from the lecturers and instructors. Also, you can also take part in personality testing. Personality assessments on their own are also a helpful tool for you to get an idea about what your weaknesses might be. Just be sure that there is someone reliable who can help you interpret the results.
Find yourself a job… or just an interview
From time to time, go for an interview as a candidate for a position. When it is over, you can always ask for feedback. Again, it is important to be quiet and listen carefully. Remember, you are not there to defend yourself. You are there to hear some meaningful and open feedback on your behavior.
Ask your boss a tough question
If you had to look for someone to replace me, what would the ideal candidate have to be like? Which skills would you specifically be looking for? Of course, you don’t want to plant a seed into your boss’s mind, but you can give it a try. Make sure that you emphasize that it is merely a hypothetical inquiry, so you don't encourage any dangerous ideas.
If you have a thick skin and brave heart, try asking your teenage children… there is virtually no one else who could provide you with more candid feedback.
-jk-