Effective feedback at work isn’t just helpful—it’s essential.
A key Australian study in 2021 revealed that regular, ongoing feedback was the only consistently effective method for improving employee performance. This type of feedback involves open, continuous conversations between managers and employees, blending praise, constructive coaching, evaluations, and actionable suggestions.
Yet, many organizations still neglect to properly train employees on how to give or receive feedback effectively. Here are some ways to improve both skills:
Tips for Giving Feedback:
- Know what feedback means: Everything a manager says about performance will be interpreted as feedback. The tone, language, and delivery matter greatly. Make sure to balance constructive guidance with genuine appreciation.
- Make it a habit: Feedback should be frequent, not reserved for annual reviews. According to Gallup, short, timely input—several times a week—is far more impactful than infrequent formal sessions.
- Consider offering advice instead: The term ‘feedback’ can feel negative or backward-looking. Try reframing it as ‘advice’ when appropriate, to make it more future-focused and positively received.
- Be supportive, not critical: Focus on behaviors, not personal traits. Avoid rehashing past mistakes. Instead, work collaboratively to identify solutions and offer help to enable growth.
Tips for Receiving Feedback:
- Understand your own reactions: Reflect on how you typically respond to feedback. Defensive behavior can discourage future input. Strive to stay open and curious.
- Take time to process: Don’t rush to judgment. Reflect on the feedback you’ve received, talk it through with a trusted mentor if needed, and seek clarity from your manager when necessary.
- Separate message from messenger: Concentrate on what’s being said, not who’s saying it. Focus first on the content; relationship dynamics can be addressed later.
- Acknowledge and appreciate: Even if feedback is tough to hear, respond respectfully. Show appreciation for well-meant input, and share your intended actions. Of course, you’re not obliged to thank someone for abusive or unprofessional criticism.
Despite technological advancements, including AI, the core of a strong workplace remains unchanged. Quality, consistent feedback is fundamental to employee development and satisfaction. Organizations must prioritize training their people in both delivering and receiving feedback effectively to foster growth and build high-performing teams.
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Source: Ceoworld.Biz
