Difference between revisions of "Feedback"

Purpose

The purpose of giving feedback is to improve a situation or performance. It is important to try to make it a positive process and experience.

Content

• Identify the topic or issue that the feedback will be about
• Limit your focus on no more than 2 issues
• Be specific and identify exactly what needs to be improved
• Prepare comments before giving feedback: this will help you be as clear as possible
• Where possible, use specific examples
• Give time to the other person to think through what you said and react to it
• Provide specific suggestions to improve the situation

Manner

• Be direct when delivering your message and avoid beating around the bush
• While public recognition is appreciated, public scrutiny is not. Therefore, establish a safe place to talk where you will not be interrupted or overheard
• Highlight positive aspects as well: a good rule is to start off with something positive or to give positive feedback at the end of the session
• In positive feedback, express appreciation; while in negative feedback, express concern. A tone of concern communicates a sense of importance and care, and provides the appropriate level of sincerity to the message

Time

• Giving feedback is not about surprising someone so the closer you do it, the better.

Frequency

• Feedback is a process that requires constant attention
• Distinguish between formal and informal feedback. In the first case, it may be given e.g. once a year or every three months, while in the second case simple, informal feedback should be given much more often- perhaps every week depending on the situation.

Follow up

• The whole purpose of giving feedback is to improve performance. Be sure to regularly follow up and make adjustments.^[4]