As a manager, sometimes you must provide feedback to your team members. It can feel strange and even like an imbalance of power, but getting honest feedback is essential to growth and development and building successful organizations. There are ways to make this process easier.
Here are some tips for giving respectful, constructive feedback.
Be Proactive
The biggest mistake many managers make regarding feedback is to wait until an annual review to provide it. But errors will continue by the time that meeting comes around, and it may be too late to correct any issues. Be proactive and talk to your employees as soon as possible to adjust their behavior or improve their performance, which can still make a difference.
Be Specific
Many managers will often try to soften the message, but this can also backfire. The message may not land the way you intended. It’s critical to be specific and direct when providing feedback. Lay out exactly what change you need to see and why.
Create a Plan
It’s also essential to create an improvement plan. If you tell someone you need to see a change but don’t give them the means to improve, they may not. When you give feedback, tell them precisely what you need to see happen and when. Then follow up with them.
Set Goals
Feedback should have a positive process. Work with your employees to set objectives to make improvements and reach goals that benefit their careers and your business. Goal setting is a great way to encourage your employees.
Can we help you find your next superstar? Contact Hutco to see what we can do today.
