How do you approach giving negative feedback?

Question

I've heard of the feedback sandwich, but it seems to be an outdated input method. Do you have tips for feedback/hard conversations with your coworkers?

Accepted Answer

When you have to give someone bad news, it's important to do so with tact and understanding. I try to give specific examples of what the person did wrong and explain how it hurt the situation. I also make sure to tell them what they could do better in the future. It's important to stay calm and not get defensive, since that can make the situation worse and make it harder for the other person to take the feedback. Lastly, I always try to end on a positive note by telling them I believe in their potential and am there to help them get better.

Lillie Anne Vogt · Answer

@catherine_norris Great point!

Andrew James Bagby · Answer

Make sure its constructive, not negative. If you give feedback, you should have a solution

Catherine Norris · Answer

Instead of focusing on something negative that happened in the past, I find it more beneficial to instead offer some helpful suggestions for future situations (in appropriate context).

Lillie Anne Vogt · Answer

@alinedavid72 Thank you for your input, lots of good points. I especially like the idea of ending on a positive note. It's important to remind each other of our value and potential.

How do you approach giving negative feedback?

Replies