Introduction: What You’ll Learn
This simulation helps you practice asking for and processing feedback about your leadership potential. You'll work on approaching mentors or managers, asking insightful questions, and interpreting feedback to identify growth areas.
You’ll practice:
- Starting a constructive feedback conversation
- Asking insightful questions
- Listening actively and seeking clarification
- Reflecting on feedback and planning next steps
Step-by-Step Simulation
Scene 1: Initiating the Conversation
You: "Hi [Manager's Name], do you have a moment? I’d love to get your thoughts on my potential to step into a leadership role."
Manager: "Sure, I’d be happy to help. What specific areas are you curious about?"
You: "I’m looking to understand my strengths and areas where I can improve regarding leadership. Any advice on how I can prepare for future opportunities would be great."
Scene 2: Receiving Feedback
Manager: "You’re really strong with problem-solving and collaborating with the team. One area to work on is taking more initiative during meetings. Leadership often means guiding projects and the team toward clear goals."
You: "Thanks for pointing that out. Could you give me an example where I could have shown more initiative?"
Manager: "Sure. In the last project kickoff, there was a chance to help set clearer goals. That might be a good area to practice."
You: "Understood. I’ll work on being more proactive in those situations. Any other areas you think I should focus on?"
Scene 3: Clarifying and Planning
Manager: "Another good step is mentoring newer team members. It’s a great way to show leadership. You’ve done some of this, but there might be more opportunities to help others."
You: "That’s a great suggestion. I’ll start by reaching out to new team members to see if I can support them. Can we check in again in a few months to see how I’m doing?"
Manager: "Absolutely, let’s plan a follow-up. I’m glad you’re taking the initiative to grow."
Scene 4: Reflecting on Feedback
Self-Reflection:
- How can I work this feedback into my daily routine?
- What specific actions will I take to show initiative and mentorship?
- How can I get more feedback from peers or other mentors?
Action Plan:
- Initiative: Lead discussions in at least two meetings per month.
- Mentorship: Pair with a new team member for regular check-ins.
- Follow-up: Schedule a feedback review with my manager in three months.
Mini Roleplay Challenges
Challenge 1: The manager gives very general feedback. What do you do?
- Best Response: “Could you give me a specific example or situation?”
Challenge 2: The manager mentions a skill you hadn’t considered important.
- Best Response: “Interesting — could you explain why that skill is crucial for leadership?”
Challenge 3: You’re unsure how to use the feedback.
- Best Response: “Thanks for the feedback. Could you suggest a few steps I might take to develop this area?”
Optional Curveball Mode
- The manager is rushed and gives brief feedback.
- You received conflicting feedback from different people.
- The manager suggests a leadership skill you’re not comfortable with.
Practice handling each situation with poise and determination.
Reflection Checklist
Feedback Process
- Did I ask clear questions?
- Did I get specific examples?
- Did I confirm I understood the feedback?
Action Planning
- Did I outline actionable steps?
- Did I set a timeline for follow-up?
Growth Mindset
- Was I open to feedback?
- Did I thank the manager for their input?
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Being defensive about feedback
- Not asking for clarification
- Skipping a follow-up plan
- Ignoring feedback that feels challenging