When we're trying to navigate a difficult situation, getting feedback from others can help us find our way. And while it's natural to seek support from those closest to us, the best guidance may come from an outsider.

It may seem unusual to reach beyond our immediate circle of managers, mentors and peers, but tapping an outsider for feedback can deliver the benefits minus the baggage. Outsiders can empathize with us without judgement, bias or preconceived beliefs – imparting valuable insights that leave us better than before.

Benefits of looking to outsiders

There are several reasons we may want to look to outsiders for feedback:

1. Fresh eyes, fresh ideas: Because they're detached from the issue, outsiders can spot and suggest solutions we may have missed.
2. The truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth: Outsiders aren't bound by office politics, workplace drama or prior history. They can be reliable truth-tellers without the feedback sugarcoating or "praise sandwiching" we might otherwise receive.  
3. Willing and ready: Our bosses often lack the time or temperament to share valuable feedback with us, but outsiders may be more inclined to assume the role. If we frame the request appropriately (more on than in a moment), they may even take a stronger interest in seeing us succeed.
4. Different and deeper perspective: Outsiders can fill our knowledge gaps with insights they've gleaned from their own experience. To them, it might just be an ordinary detail. To us, it might become our breakthrough solution.

Asking outsiders for feedback

Before you ask outsiders for feedback, make sure your request is both constructive and classy. These are some ways to make sure outsiders will let you in:

1. Be clear about your purpose. Explain why you're seeking feedback and what input you need. Provide some background, highlight areas where you're struggling, and describe your ultimate goals and any other relevant factors (scheduling, deadlines, etc.). An outsider's feedback is only as helpful as the context we provide.
2. Ask focused questions: Instead a making a generic ask, provide a set of targeted questions to guide the outsider's response. Questions like, "Can you identify any potential weaknesses or blind spots in my approach?" or "How do you think this idea would be received in your industry?" ensure that feedback hits its mark.
3. Follow up with gratitude: If possible, describe the positive outcomes or improvements that resulted from the outsider's feedback – something along the lines of, "I just wanted to let you know how grateful I am for your suggestions. They truly helped me." This not only validates their input but also gives them a sense of contribution to your success – increasing the chances that they'll share feedback with you in the future.

Going outside our usual circle for feedback may seem like the scenic route, but getting feedback from the unlikeliest of sources can ultimately put us on the right track for success.