Why Feedback Matters

Feedback has this way of exposing what’s not working while also pointing the way forward. I’ll never forget a campaign we thought was perfect—clean design, sharp messaging, the whole package. Then a client asked one simple question: “How does this connect emotionally?”

That one question changed everything. It sent us back to refine the concept, and what came out of it was a campaign that resonated far more deeply than the original ever could have. That’s the power of feedback—it challenges us to be better, even when it’s uncomfortable.

Embracing Feedback with Gratitude

Receiving feedback gracefully isn’t always natural. Let’s be real: the first instinct is often to defend the work or brush off a critique. But when you shift your mindset to see feedback as an opportunity rather than a judgment, everything changes.

Gratitude doesn’t just mean saying “thanks” out of politeness. It means appreciating that someone took the time to share their perspective—whether it’s a client, a colleague, or even the performance data from a campaign. That input isn’t just noise; it’s a chance to make something better.

The Art of Giving Feedback

Feedback works both ways. Giving it effectively takes just as much care as receiving it. The key is to be specific, constructive, and solution-oriented. “This could be stronger” isn’t helpful. “What if we focused more on the emotional connection?” invites collaboration and curiosity.

Starting feedback with “what if” can soften the critique and open the door to possibilities rather than shutting them down. It shifts the tone from judgment to exploration, making it easier for the other person to engage without feeling defensive and sparks great collaboration to find a solution.

Building a Culture of Feedback

At RCG, we believe feedback should be part of the process, not an afterthought. It’s how we push each other to create work we’re proud of. That requires trust, humility, and a shared commitment to making the best ideas rise to the top.

It also requires clear ground rules: no egos, no vague comments, and no holding back when you have something valuable to contribute. A culture of feedback isn’t just about improving the work—it’s about improving how we work together.

Thank You for Helping Us Grow

This Thanksgiving, we’re grateful for the insights, questions, and even the tough critiques that shaped our year. Feedback might not always feel like a gift at first, but it truly is one of the most powerful tools for growth.

From all of us at RCG, thank you for trusting us, challenging us, and helping us grow. Here’s to another year of listening, learning, and doing better together.