What do you do if your team members are resistant to your electrical design feedback?

1 Clear Objectives

Begin by setting clear objectives for your feedback. Explain the reasoning behind your suggestions, focusing on how they align with project goals and industry standards. For example, if you recommend a change to a power distribution system, clarify how it enhances efficiency or meets regulatory requirements. By linking feedback to specific, agreed-upon goals, you help team members understand that your input is aimed at improving the design rather than criticizing their work.

3 Empathy and Support

Display empathy and offer support when addressing resistance. Understand that your team members have invested time and effort into their designs and may feel attached to their work. Approach the conversation with sensitivity and be ready to provide guidance on how to implement your feedback effectively. By showing that you care about their feelings and professional growth, you can foster a more receptive attitude towards your input.

4 Incremental Changes

Introduce changes incrementally to avoid overwhelming your team. If you have several feedback points, prioritize them and address the most critical ones first. For instance, if a design does not comply with safety standards, tackle this issue before moving on to less urgent aesthetic considerations. Gradual implementation allows team members to adjust their designs without feeling that their work is being completely overhauled.

5 Lead by Example

Demonstrate how to receive and integrate feedback by leading by example. If you also engage in design work, show openness to critiques from your peers and make visible adjustments based on their input. This sets a positive precedent within the team and reinforces a culture where feedback is viewed as a constructive part of the design process.

6 Training and Resources

Provide training and resources that can help your team improve their electrical design skills. This could include workshops on the latest NEC updates or sessions on best practices in circuit design. Equipping your team with knowledge and tools not only addresses the root causes of potential design issues but also empowers them to create better designs in the future.