Thank You for Your Feedback. We've Ignored It.

Your voice matters. Please keep it agreeable.

“We really value everyone's opinion.”

Excellent.

You point out a problem. Explain why it isn't working. Suggest a solution.

“Thank you. We'll take that on board.”

Apparently, there's a very large board somewhere.

Nothing ever comes back off it.

Six months later, the problem has grown legs, acquired a budget and been promoted to a strategic challenge.

There's a meeting.

A PowerPoint.

Possibly biscuits.

You mention that you raised this months ago.

“Let's not dwell on the past.”

Quite right.

That was six months ago.

Practically medieval history.

Eventually, you stop offering suggestions.

Not because you don't care, but because you've discovered that your opinion is most valuable when nobody has to do anything with it.

Then comes your performance review.

“We'd really like you to be more proactive.”

Of course.

Your voice matters.

Thank you for keeping it to yourself.