The Hot Seat
- Johanna Wegner
- Nov 23
- 3 min read
Methoden-Monday: The Hot Seat – Courage for Honest Feedback
In my last blog post, we explored the art of giving feedback. Today’s method takes it one step further – making feedback tangible and experiential: The Hot Seat.
This method creates a safe and respectful space for honest feedback – open, clear, and at eye level. It invites teams to share what is often left unsaid, fostering trust, self-reflection, and a culture of genuine communication.
What is the Hot Seat?
The Hot Seat is a structured feedback method for groups, in which one person voluntarily takes the center position and receives feedback from others – about their impact, communication, or role within the team. The feedback can be focused on a specific topic or completely open and general, depending on what the person wishes to explore or what the group feels is needed at that moment.
Examples of possible questions:
How do you experience working with me
What helps you in communicating with me – and what makes it more difficult?
What impact do I have within this group?
Or simply: I’m curious – what feedback would you like to share with me?
What do you appreciate about me?
What do you notice about me that I might not be aware of myself?
Structure and Process
Set the frame: The coach or facilitator explains the method, its attitude, and the basic rules (respect, I-statements, no judgment).
The person in focus: One person voluntarily takes the seat.
Formulate questions (optional): They may define one or two questions for feedback – or the group can offer free, spontaneous feedback.
Feedback round: Everyone shares their perceptions honestly, appreciatively, and concretely.
Listening: The person in the seat listens only – without justifying or discussing.
Reflection & closing: A brief final round – What do I take away? What surprised me?
Application in Coaching and Group Processes
I use the Hot Seat primarily in teams, groups, and supervision settings – wherever a culture of feedback is ready to grow. It helps connect self-perception and external perception, strengthens trust, and deepens mutual understanding.
Careful facilitation is key, especially in new groups or when feedback is still unfamiliar.
Variations in Practice
Positive perception & interpretation
At the beginning of a team process, the Hot Seat can start with a round of positive perceptions. Each person shares what they appreciate or notice in the other. For example:
When I look at you, I can imagine that you bring a lot of calm and balance to the team.
This creates appreciation and trust as the foundation for further feedback.
In teams with communication challenges or conflict:
The Hot Seat opens up honest, respectful dialogue and encourages mutual understanding.
To strengthen atmosphere and collaboration:
Used regularly, it turns feedback into a natural and constructive routine in everyday teamwork.
Why the Hot Seat is so effective
Honest feedback isn’t always easy, but it’s always an opportunity.
The Hot Seat creates moments where real listening becomes possible: without judgment, without defense.
It’s not about correcting or explaining, but about noticing how one’s actions and presence are perceived by others. That can be challenging – and at the same time deeply connecting.
Those who are willing to receive feedback show courage and open the door to personal and collective growth.
🪑 The Hot Seat is not a place of judgment. It’s a space where trust and growth can emerge.
Who is this method for?
Teams that want to communicate more openly and directly
Groups going through change or facing communication challenges
Supervision groups or team development settings
Organizations aiming to strengthen a culture of honest feedback
Conclusion
Honest feedback takes courage and trust.
The Hot Seat offers both: a protected space where feedback becomes a valuable moment of learning. Those who enter this space open themselves to growth, connection, and authentic collaboration.
👉 Would you like to build a living, safe feedback culture in your team?
I support groups and teams with tailored coaching formats that strengthen trust and communication in a sustainable way.
Learn more at www.johannawegner.de/en
Yours Johanna
Comments