Understanding that constructive criticism and employee feedback are part of being a manager doesn’t make it less challenging. But, let’s face it, providing feedback is essential to improved performance and a productive office environment. Presenting said corrective feedback in a way that ends with your employee feeling capable and confident might be difficult, but following these tips ensures it’s doable.

5 Tips on Constructive Feedback

1.  Don’t Delay

If you are giving feedback about a specific event or action, don’t wait until weeks after the event. Instead, sit down with your employee within a few days. If you don’t, the details may become fuzzy, and your feedback will lose its relevance.

2.  Ask for the employee’s feedback

Always allow your employee to share their viewpoint about their performance. It will encourage self-examination, which is often the best ‘feedback’ they can receive. Furthermore, if their thoughts align with yours, it creates an in-sync atmosphere. You can commend their insight and encourage them to do better the next time around.

3. Be prepared

Ensure you have the correct information, prepare the thoughts you wish to share, and write them down. Prepare your mindset. For example, cramming your discussion between two crucial appointments or at the end of the day when you are stressed is not conducive to the right attitude.

4. Begin and end with a positive

Choose the sandwich effect. If you start with pleasantness and a genuine compliment, it will ease your way into an honest conversation. Ending with a positive note and encouragement lets your employees know you value them and have confidence in their abilities.

5. Set a goal or assignment

By helping your employee set a specific, positive intent, you are giving him a call to action and a vote of confidence.

Providing constructive feedback is a delicate but necessary part of a successful business. It helps to remember the main objective – identifying and solving a problem to create a happier, more productive work environment and process. Build your constructive feedback process on the principle that mistakes are an opportunity to learn and grow. As a result, you can reduce or eliminate the associated tension while empowering your employees to do their best.  

At The Robert Joseph Group, we do more than share tips for business success. We understand the needs of our clients and know how to deliver talent that makes a difference. So when you need specific skillsets and solid experience, contact our team of dedicated professionals.