One of the most effective ways to help your employees grow, improve, and build their careers is through ongoing feedback. Both positive and negative feedback – let’s call the latter constructive criticism – can be extremely helpful. But it has to be carefully planned and executed for it to be a success.
Timing is everything.
Nothing against the requisite annual performance reviews, but take additional opportunities to deliver feedback throughout the year. These tend to be more meaningful and fruitful because feedback is most effective when delivered in real-time.
Be prepared.
Feedback conversations are important to both you and your employee, so take time in advance to gather your data and adequately prepare. Use facts, specific examples, and statistics to be ready to support what you need to say.
The sandwich approach only leaves behind a bad taste.
If you’re not familiar with the sandwich approach, it refers to the technique of slipping in criticism between two compliments as you meet with an employee. And, it should be avoided for two reasons:
1. People tend to see right through it, and
2. Delaying the inevitable only heightens anxiety for everyone involved.
Be thoughtful and professional but direct when you have to deliver negative feedback. Suggest to your employee that the two of you address problems together. And most importantly, make sure all feedback you offer is honest and authentic.
Don’t fall into the bias trap.
In any interaction with employees, avoid any bias. This is another area that may require some careful advance thought.
A Few More Tips
Here are a few more tips for offering consistent, effective constructive criticism to your employees:
When it comes to employee development, including the most effective ways to evaluate, coach, and lead your workforce, consider partnering with PrideStaff Modesto. We can help create customized solutions to meet all your staffing, talent management, and ongoing HR needs. Reach out to us today to learn more.
