How to Write Effective Feedback Comments

YOUR FEEDBACK WILL HELP Your opinions are trusted and valued You want the individual to improve aspects of performance You’ve regularly observed the individual’s actions in the workplace

EFFECTIVE FEEDBACK Begin with a positive comment. Describe the behavior you observed. Explain the impact of the behavior. Describe the desired behavior. Give encouragement.

EFFECTIVE FEEDBACK 1. Begin with a positive comment. Describe related behavior that has been helpful or positive Reassure the person that you’ve noticed the good along with the issues Give balance to your feedback

EFFECTIVE FEEDBACK 2. Describe the behavior you observed. Focus on the behavior, not the person Be specific about the behavior Avoid judging the person’s motives or intentions Avoid vague, broad or absolute statements Avoid emotional or hurtful language

EFFECTIVE FEEDBACK 3. Explain the impact of the behavior. How it affects you or others Why the behavior has become a problem 4. Describe the desired behavior. What you need or expect What you’d like the person to do differently in the future

EFFECTIVE FEEDBACK 5. Give encouragement. Affirm the strengths of the individual Express confidence in the person’s ability to succeed

INAPPROPRIATE COMMENTS “You never think of anyone but yourself.” “Why on earth did you do that?” “I don’t like your attitude.” “You don’t know what you’re doing.” “You’re not a team player.” “You’ve really made a mess of things.”

APPROPRIATE COMMENT - POSITIVE “Whenever I tell you I’m having a problem, you usually take the time to talk with me about it. Your input makes a big difference in how I handle things, and I hope you’ll continue to make time for me.”

APPROPRIATE COMMENT -CONSTRUCTIVE “We usually work well together, but sometimes when you’re really busy the look on your face says ‘Don’t bother me.’ So I keep my problem to myself. I know you want to help, so when you don’t want to be interrupted, could you let me know when it would be OK to talk?”