What to do when feedback goes sideways

Delivering feedback is one of the most important (and trickiest) parts of managing a team. When done right, it can inspire growth and better results. But when it goes wrong—when feedback is brushed off, ignored, or met with defensiveness—it can feel like an uphill battle to reset the tone.

In this week’s episode of Managing Made Simple, I share a story from a client who faced this exact challenge and break down how to navigate tough feedback conversations with your team. Whether you’ve been too casual in your tone or are just looking to refine your feedback delivery, this episode offers strategies you can implement today.

Key Strategies for Better Feedback

1. Reset the Tone: If you’ve noticed your team brushing off feedback, it’s time to have a candid conversation about communication norms. Let your team know that while you value openness and collaboration, feedback is non-negotiable for growth.

2. Make Feedback Actionable: Using the SBPI framework (Situation, Behavior, Impact) ensures your feedback is specific and tied to outcomes. For example:

• Situation: “In our meeting yesterday…”
• Behavior: “You interrupted a colleague while they were presenting.”
• Impact: “This made it hard for us to fully hear their ideas.”

3. Understand Preferences: Ask your team how they prefer to receive feedback—whether it’s through email, a quick Slack message, or a one-on-one meeting. Tailoring your approach can make a big difference in how your feedback is received.

4. Move Off Text: Text communication can easily be misinterpreted. Whenever possible, deliver feedback in person, via video, or through voice notes to minimize confusion and foster open dialogue.

Why Feedback Matters

Creating a culture where feedback is valued isn’t just about fixing mistakes—it’s about aligning your team’s goals, building trust, and fostering a shared commitment to excellence. When you address challenges head-on and with compassion, you’re empowering your team to grow together.

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