Learning From Mistakes

(MoneyWatch)  Hey, we all make mistakes, right? Often though, the ones that can be the most harmful to our work are those that are easy to overlook.

I'm talking about mistakes to do with such issues as:

• responding efficiently and effectively to inquiries
• satisfying the real needs of our customers
• asking questions and researching issues fully before taking action
• listening to what's being said, rather than making assumptions

So how do we make sure we spot our mistakes and more importantly, learn from them?

The answer is to adopt a simple, three step process:

1. Pause

Get into the habit of pausing during the day --- just for a moment or two --- look at what you've been doing; how you've been working and how you've responded to issues and challenges.

Pausing gives us time to look at something after the event and question if it could have been done differently, could have been done better. By pausing in this way we can often see a mistake and rectify it before it does any serious damage.

In business, particular times to practice pausing can be after meetings; as we prepare for presentations, as we compile proposals, documents or letters. In other words, put a pause 'around' the most important aspects of your business.

2. Acknowledge

Step two is where we get to be tough on ourselves. Look closely at what's not going according to plan; look at any business relationships that are a bit uncomfortable; consider any situations you've been involved in that appear to have worsened as a consequence of your involvement.

Acknowledge your part in the issue and head quickly to Step Three.

3. Take the learning

Finally, get clear on what you will do differently next time and if necessary, develop a procedure to ensure the lesson is learned. Try asking yourself:

• What else could I have done?
• How might I behave or respond if confronted by the same situation again?

Learning from mistakes can be the difference between good and great. Pause awhile and commit to change.