1 Set clear expectations

Before you start working with a partner, make sure you have a clear and mutual understanding of the goals, roles, and expectations of the partnership. Communicate how often and how you will exchange feedback, and what kind of feedback you are looking for. For example, you can ask your partner to rate your performance on a scale of 1 to 5, and provide examples of what you did well and what you can improve. You can also agree on a feedback format, such as a survey, a report, or a meeting, and a feedback frequency, such as weekly, monthly, or quarterly.

2 Ask open-ended questions

One of the best ways to get specific and actionable feedback from partners is to ask open-ended questions that invite them to elaborate on their thoughts and feelings. Open-ended questions are those that cannot be answered with a simple yes or no, but require more explanation and detail. For example, you can ask your partner: "What are the most valuable aspects of our partnership?" "What are the biggest challenges or frustrations that you face in working with us?" "How can we help you achieve your goals more effectively?" "What are some areas that we can improve on as a partner?"

4 Follow up and follow through

After you get feedback from your partner, make sure you follow up and follow through on it. Follow up means checking in with your partner to confirm that you understood their feedback correctly, and to ask for any additional information or clarification that you need. Follow through means taking action on the feedback, and implementing the changes or improvements that you agreed on. For example, you can update your partner on the progress or results of your actions, and ask for their feedback again. This way, you can show your partner that you respect their feedback, and that you are committed to enhancing your partnership.

5 Give feedback in return

Another effective way to get specific and actionable feedback from partners is to give feedback in return. Giving feedback means sharing your own opinions, suggestions, and concerns with your partner, in a constructive and respectful way. Giving feedback can help you build trust, rapport, and reciprocity with your partner, and encourage them to open up and share their feedback with you. For example, you can give your partner positive feedback on what they do well, and constructive feedback on what they can improve. You can also ask for their input on how you can work better together, and what they expect from you as a partner.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?