Delivering constructive feedback can be difficult for both the sender and the receiver (and the messenger, but we won’t get into that). Doing it right can drive growth and trust. However, doing it wrong can lead to tension and confusion.
Here are 5 tips for giving constructive feedback:
1. Don’t make it personal, focus rather on the behavior and action that was done and explain the negative impact.
2. Offer examples of how to improve and allow your direct report to adjust and adapt accordingly. People have to want to change to make a positive difference.
3. Be direct, timely, and kind. You are there to help, not hurt. Most people don’t appreciate being yelled at, so if you need a minute to collect your thoughts, do so. Keeping your cool goes a long way and helps your direct report feel that you care about their growth and the mission of the company.
4. Ask them for their perspective. It should be a two-way open and honest conversation, not just a one-way street.
5. Follow up after some time and close the loop with positive feedback and recognition if you have seen improvement. Otherwise, if the behavior is still happening, reiterate the impact of why improvement is needed.
Watch the Constructive Feedback tip video from The Wild West of Software Project Management series below.