Giving and Receiving Feedback

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Giving and Receiving Feedback
Lisa J. Downs

• American Society for Training and Development

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Feedback Defined

• Feedback is the response by a listener to a
  speakers message
• It can be verbal or nonverbal, positive or
  constructive
• Giving and receiving feedback effectively is key
  for good listening

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Feedback Defined

• Effective Feedback Is
• Timely
• Specific
• Descriptive
• Relevant
• Helpful
• Realistic

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Steps for Giving Feedback

• 1. Ask the person if he or she is open to
  receiving feedback
• 2. Describe the persons behavior as specifically
  and accurately as possible, focusing on
  observations
• 3. Keep the tone of voice positive

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Steps for Giving Feedback

• 4. Describe the impact of the persons behavior
• 5. Work with the person to identify alternate
  behaviors
• 6. Follow up with the person after an agreed-upon
  timeframe

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Tips for Giving Feedback

• Be aware of your own reactions and feelings
  question assumptions
• Avoid rushing to judgment or blame keep an open
  mind
• Use paraphrasing and empathic listening techniques

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Tips for Giving Feedback

• Consider the persons recent behavior
• Help the person explore ideas and action steps
• Be mindful of timing and location for the
  feedback conversation

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Feedback Example

• Speaker Jim, Ive noticed something with your
  behavior in our team meetings. Would now be a
  good time to share my observation with you?
• Listener Sure, Kim. Im at a stopping point in
  my work right now.
• Speaker Great thank you. When you dont seem
  to have project updates to share in our
  meetings, I feel concerned. Can you help me
  understand whats happening?

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Steps for Receiving Feedback

• 1. Ask for feedback to avoid any surprises
• 2. Consider any feedback as being in your best
  interest
• 3. Concentrate on listening to the other person

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Steps for Receiving Feedback

• 4. Paraphrase what you hear to gain understanding
• 5. Ask clarifying questions if needed
• 6. Thank the person for taking an interest and
  tell him or her how you will use the feedback

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Tips for Receiving Feedback

• Avoid becoming defensive stay focused on the
  positive
• Ask for examples or specific observations if you
  do not hear any
• Do not ramble listen more than speak

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Tips for Receiving Feedback

• Do not interrupt the speaker
• Ask for feedback only when you want an honest
  response
• Follow through on commitments made during the
  conversation and update the person on progress