That’s why learning how to give helpful feedback is so important.

Great feedback can help people become even better at what they do.

It can also foster greater trust and communication when it is delivered correctly.

Businesswoman explaining something to coworker on a computer

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Feedback is crucial not only for the group’s success but also for personal growth.

Great feedback can help people become even better at what they do.

It can also foster greater trust and communication when these rules are followed.

It tends to happen naturally.

or “Does this sound right to you?").

It’s not necessarily about saying that there is anything wrong with what we’ve done.

Instead, it is about pointing out some ways we might make it even better.

Performance reviews and educational assessments are a few examples.

Formal feedback often points out areas that could be improved, but it also highlights our strengths.

Performance feedback can help measure our progress and recognize how much we’ve have grown in our roles.

It can also be helpful when it comes to achieving specific performance goals.

It’s important to remember that each kind of feedback serves a different purpose.

Some basic recommendations that can help verify your feedback is helpful and not hurtful.

Choose the Right Time

Waiting too long might make your feedback less meaningful.

Most importantly, verify that the feedback recipient knows they are going to be getting feedback.

Don’t blindside people with surprise performance reviews.

Be sure to utilizenon-verbal communicationthat reinforces what you are saying.

Frowning when you’re complimenting the other person might cause mixed signals.

How do you do this?

Getting the other person involved is a great way to start.

or “Do you have any ideas for how to change this?”

Positive Feedback Sounds Like…

Positive feedback is often easier to deliver.

After all, most people welcome some kind words and compliments on a job well done.

For example, you might want to deliver positive feedback to an employee has shown consistently great performance.

You’re hard work and commitment definitely paid off!”

In other cases, you might want to deliver feedback meant to positively reinforce a team member’s progress.

Keep it up, and you’re really going to continue to shine!"

Negative Feedback Sounds Like… Let’s talk about what we can do to help you make these improvements."

Using “I feel” statementswhen delivering negative feedback can also be helpful.

Delivering negative feedback isn’t easy, but sometimes there’s just no getting around it.

Just remember that you’ve got the option to get your message across without making someone feel bad.

A little tact and empathy can ensure that people get the message withoutfeeling defensiveor upset.

Give Feedback Privately

Suggest Solutions

Feedback should be more than a laundry list of problems.

Stayopen-mindedand look at it as an opportunity to hone your skills.

Clarify Any Misunderstandings

Don’t be afraid to ask questions if the feedback is unclear or confusing.

Focus on being specific to ensure you understand what the reviewer or commenter is trying to convey.

You’llfeel less emotionaland defensive if you stop and take some time to reflect.

have a go at Stay Positive

The fact is that getting negative feedback isn’t any fun.

have a go at remember that feedback isn’t meant to be a personal attack.

Even though you might feel bad, remember that it’s something that can help you learn and grow.

Giving and receiving feedback can sometimes be challenging, especially since you dont want to make anyone feel bad.

Its a skill worth working on, so be willing to accept some feedback on how you give it!

2012;34(10):787-791. doi:10.3109/0142159X.2012.684916