118 / TAKING UP YOUR LEADERSHIP ROLEProviding feedback
Opening the dialogue
Giving feedback is not just about telling
someone what you think. It is a two-way
process that involves listening, asking
questions, gaining commitment to
change, summarizing what has been
covered, and clarifying understanding.
Feedback can be given informally in
reviews or in quick one-to-one meetings.
Many organizations also provide
planned appraisals—regular, formal
opportunities for the exchange of
feedback that can include reviews
of performance, development, or both.
Appraisals happen at least annually and
are usually between the line managerThe ability to both give and receive feedback is an essential leadership
skill. Giving feedback encourages development and innovative thinking
in your team, while knowing how to receive feedback provides an
opportunity to learn more about yourself as a leader and the effect
your behavior has on others.LISTEN WELL
Be open in any feedback
sessions. Other people will
not approach everything
in the same way as you, so
listen to their suggestions.Tip
and team member although they can
include others. Feedback from your
boss, your team members, peers, and
customers is termed “360° feedback”;
when segments are omitted (for example,
feedback from customers and peers),
the term is “180° feedback.” Take time to
prepare for a feedback session. Book a
private room to ensure no interruptions.
Always start positively, talk about the
recipient’s achievements: encourage
them to talk about what has gone well.
Avoid the tendency to focus more on
mistakes they might have made than
their strengths; make sure the positive
feedback outweighs developmental
points you bring up by at least 2:1.360 °
Make sure positive feedback
outweighs developmentalpoints by at least 2:1
Feedback or other
multi-source feedback
is used in about one-third
of US organizations
US_118-119_Providing_feedback.indd 118 30/05/16 3:02 pm