Feedback conversation necessary? Do this one thing⬇

Every once in a while it becomes necessary that we share feedback with our colleagues. This could be because we observed unacceptable behavior, experienced bad project outcomes or simply seen an opportunity for improvement.

Most feedback conversations are about constructive feedback, i. e. sharing observations and recommendations that will help the person to get better.

That being said, positive feedback conversations take place not nearly enough! Positive feedback is not just about sharing a recognition or appreciation. Conveying your recommendations, you can make sure that the person can expand their already positive impact. What a gift!

Constructive or positive — both have an immediate effect on people. But often the first effect we elicit is not good change. Instead, we instil fear in our peers. Why does this happen?

“We need to talk” is a sentence that is as vague as it is brutal. Every person who has been through the experience of their manager saying these words and then laying it on to them associates horrible feelings with it. The same can happen when a colleague, particularly one with power, does this.

Of course, if the feedback is a positive one, this could turn it around. Does it, though? The bitter aftertaste remains.