Managing feedback

It has been more than a little while since I have had such a substantial piece of work reviewed, critiqued and analysed. I can honestly say I went in optimistically nervous. I was invested in the idea of having an outside perspective to make my work as strong as possible, but if I am completely honest, I really wasn’t looking forward to it.  

Knowing this was coming, that it was part of the process and that it was something I knew I wanted in and of itself, all helped to change my approach.  

Firstly, it made me think much harder about how I wanted to come across to my readers, the voice I wanted to use and the tone I wanted to communicate. To protect this aspect, I needed to be crystal clear about where changes would be welcomed and where they would potentially alter my delivery – not just in terms of the message, but the authenticity of this being my work, from me.

The second important change that happened was when I took the time to step outside of the text as a writer to ensure that the message still resonated as an independent entity. I had some intensive writing periods in December, and it can be quite easy to get drawn down the rabbit hole of chasing a word count and ticking off chapter lists, while losing sight of the purpose and motivation behind the writing. The prospect of a second pair of eyes on my work helped sharpen my focus on delivering content that ultimately helps others become better strategic storytellers.  

Going through this process has also made me more aware than ever of how my clients must feel when I wade in to review their work – not just in terms of providing feedback and direction, but the layered value that external help and guidance brings.

I never thought I would be thankful for this aspect of the process, but I certainly wouldn’t be this far ahead and as confident in the book I am producing without it.