The Secret To Giving Feedback
Summary
- The best way to give feedback is to share the facts and state the truth.
- First, state the facts of what happened in a neutral way with no opinion.
- Make sure the facts are so clear that even an alien could understand them without bias.
- For example: "On Monday, you showed up to the meeting 30 minutes late." This is a fact anyone could verify.
- Ask the person what they think about that fact. This encourages self-reflection.
- Ideally, the person will start to recognize their own mistake and be more open to solutions.
- Guide them towards a productive solution by being supportive and understanding.
- Use language like, "Hey, it happens. Not a big deal. I've been late too. What can we do next time to prevent it?"
- Reinforce positive behavior by acknowledging improvements when you see them.
Video
How To Take Action
I would suggest using a simple yet powerful feedback method that doesn't cost a lot of time or money. Here’s how you can start right away:
Share Facts Neutrally
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State What Happened Clearly: When giving feedback, just tell the facts without any opinion. For example, say “On Monday, you showed up to the meeting 30 minutes late.” This makes sure there's no bias or misunderstanding.
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Ask for Their View: After stating the fact, ask them what they think about it. This makes them reflect on their actions without feeling accused.
Encourage Self-Reflection and Solutions
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Be Supportive: When they start recognizing the problem, guide them gently. Use phrases like, “It’s okay, it happens to everyone. How can we make sure it doesn’t happen next time?”
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Find Solutions Together: Work together to come up with ways to prevent the issue in the future. This boosts their confidence and helps build a better working relationship.
Reinforce Positive Behavior
- Acknowledge Improvements: When you see positive changes, make sure to praise it. This encourages them to keep up the good work.
By implementing these strategies, you can create a positive atmosphere where feedback feels constructive rather than critical. This method not only helps to address issues but also fosters improvement and growth, benefiting your business or personal endeavors efficiently.
