Last updated on Jun 10, 2024

Here's how you can receive feedback in Private Equity without becoming defensive.

In Private Equity (PE), receiving feedback is as crucial as analyzing a potential investment. It can be challenging, especially when the feedback isn't what you hoped for. Yet, it's a golden opportunity for growth and improvement. Understanding how to accept feedback without defensiveness can help you make better decisions and ultimately lead to more successful investments. It's about cultivating a mindset that values constructive criticism as a tool for personal and professional development.

1 Embrace Growth

When feedback comes your way in PE, view it as a catalyst for growth rather than a personal attack. The industry thrives on continuous improvement, and each piece of feedback is a stepping stone towards becoming more adept at assessing deals, managing investments, and leading your team. Remember, the most successful professionals in PE are those who learn from every situation, including the uncomfortable ones.

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Kenneth Ho

Thematic & Sustainability Investing | Multi-Asset Investments
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Feedback is a gift. It helps to improve our self awareness and makes us aware of out blind spots Embrace feedback as part of growing Adopt a growth mindset and believe that you can get better each day, instead of a fixed mindset.

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2 Listen Actively

Active listening is key when receiving feedback in PE. Pay close attention to what is being said, and resist the urge to interrupt or formulate a response while the other person is still speaking. This shows respect for their perspective and ensures you fully understand their points. After all, in an industry where details matter, missing out on critical feedback due to poor listening can be costly.

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3 Reflect Calmly

Take a moment to reflect on the feedback you receive before responding. In the fast-paced world of PE, it's easy to react quickly, but pausing allows you to process the information and respond thoughtfully. Consider the feedback's validity and how it aligns with your own experiences. This reflection can provide valuable insights into your performance and areas for improvement.

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4 Ask Questions

If you're unclear about feedback in PE, don't hesitate to ask for clarification. This demonstrates your commitment to understanding and addressing the issues at hand. Inquiring further can also turn a one-way critique into a constructive dialogue, fostering a deeper understanding of the expectations and how you can meet them.

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5 Plan Action

Once you've received and understood the feedback, create an action plan. In PE, this means setting specific, measurable goals to address the areas of improvement identified. Whether it's enhancing your financial modeling skills or developing better communication with your team, having a clear plan shows you're proactive about your professional development.

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6 Maintain Perspective

Finally, maintain perspective. In PE, not all feedback will be easy to hear, but it's essential for your growth. Remember that each piece of feedback is just one part of a larger picture. It does not define your entire worth or capability as a professional. By keeping this in mind, you can stay open to criticism without letting it undermine your confidence.

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