How can you encourage feedback that leads to improved performance?

1 Set clear expectations

Before you ask for or offer feedback, make sure you have a clear understanding of the goals, standards, and criteria for success. This will help you align your feedback with the desired outcomes and avoid confusion or ambiguity. You can also use SMART (specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound) objectives to guide your feedback process and track your progress.

2 Choose the right time and place

Timing and context are important factors for effective feedback. You want to give feedback as soon as possible after the performance or behavior, but not when emotions are high or distractions are present. You also want to choose a private and comfortable setting where you can have an open and honest conversation. Avoid giving feedback in front of others or in a public forum, as this can be embarrassing or intimidating.

3 Use the sandwich method

The sandwich method is a popular technique for giving feedback that balances positive and constructive comments. The idea is to start with a praise, then provide a suggestion for improvement, and end with another praise. This way, you can acknowledge the strengths and achievements of the person, while also pointing out the areas for development and offering support. The sandwich method can help you build rapport, boost confidence, and motivate change.

4 Ask open-ended questions

Asking open-ended questions is an effective way to encourage feedback, as these questions require more explanation or elaboration than a yes or no answer. For example, you can inquire about how they think they did on a project, what they learned from the experience, what challenges or difficulties they faced, and how you can help them achieve their goals. Asking open-ended questions can demonstrate genuine interest and curiosity, stimulate reflection and self-evaluation, and uncover insights and solutions.

5 Listen actively and empathetically

Encouraging feedback requires active and empathetic listening. Pay attention to the person's words, body language, and tone of voice while demonstrating respect, understanding, and compassion. You can show active and empathetic listening by making eye contact and nodding, using verbal and non-verbal cues to show agreement or encouragement, summarizing or paraphrasing what they said to check your understanding, asking follow-up questions or clarifying points, and expressing appreciation and recognition for their input. Doing so will create a safe and supportive environment for feedback in which the person feels valued and respected.

6 Follow up and follow through

The last tip for encouraging feedback that leads to improved performance is to follow up and follow through. This means checking in with the person regularly to see how they are doing, how they are applying the feedback, and what results they are achieving. It also means keeping your promises and commitments, and providing additional feedback, guidance, or resources as needed. By following up and following through, you can show accountability, consistency, and reliability, and foster a culture of continuous improvement and learning.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?