Feedback is something we all want more of yet most of us are pretty miserable at dishing it out ourselves.
Both in terms of quantity and in quality.
So here are some tips that author Justin Bariso has picked up over his career that might just help you become the best critical feedback giver in your office.
● You Have To Praise First. By now you’ve probably heard of the “compliment sandwich” strategy where you stick some negative feedback in between some positive statements about them. This could work but it will only seem sincere if you’ve already made a habit of giving positive reinforcement that really lets them know you see their hard work and potential. If that’s not a normal thing for you, start today.
● Admit Your Own Failures. As Bariso puts it, we hate “know-it-alls” but love “learn-it-alls.” Meaning you should stop hiding your struggles and start opening up about them. Your stories of stumbles will undoubtedly help your colleagues avoid the same pitfalls and by being vulnerable you will be making a bigger connection with them.
● Thank The Other Person. Even if you feel like you worded your constructive criticism perfectly, you should still thank them for listening to your opinion. You know from being on the receiving end yourself that it’s always tough to hear you aren’t perfect. Simply tell them thanks for being open to listening and that you think it’s cool that they’re always constantly improving. After all, you attract more ants with honey… or however that phrase goes.