How to Give Effective Feedback
Giving sincere and thoughtful feedback is one of the most powerful ways to continuously improve your team. Here are our notes on giving feedback effectively.
// BENEFITS OF FEEDBACK
Feedback is a gift! Don't be afraid to give it out, and welcome it when you receive it. Feedback:
Helps people grow and develop
Builds trust within teams
Strengthens team culture
Increases team productivity and happiness
// GROUNDWORK FOR FEEDBACK
It's your responsibility to request feedback from those around you
You should aim to give out as much positive feedback as constructive feedback
The best feedback often comes when you both genuinely care for someone as well as challenge them directly to improve
// HOW TO GIVE FEEDBACK
Use this framework for giving feedback: C.O.I.N.
Context: Describe the specific situation you want to discuss
Observations: State what happened. Keep to the facts
Impact: Explain the impact that this behaviour had on you, those around you, and the situation. Let the receiver ask questions to clarify things if necessary.
Next steps: Discuss ways to improve things, and come prepared with a suggested solution
C.O.I.N. ... because feedback is valuable! ;-)
// FEEDBACK TIPS
When: Real-time is best. 20-30 min every 3 weeks is a good place to start.
How: Keep updated notes on positive things and things to improve. Spend 15 mins preparing for the chat before it happens.
Where: Make sure you have your feedback conversation at the right place and time: go for a walk or find a cafe. If the situation gets too emotional, take a break and revisit the conversation the next day