Guidelines for giving constructive feedback
- Focus on the positive -
what you talk about you are reinforcing - where possible give positive
feedback first and last.
- Be descriptive, not
evaluative.
- Talk about specific
behaviour and give an example where possible.
- Use an “I” statement.
- Where feedback is negative
suggest alternatives where appropriate. Ask yourself - “Why am I giving this
feedback?” For me? Or to help the person concerned?
- Remember feedback says at
least as much about the giver as the receiver.
- It is normally useful to
give negative feedback only about things that can be changed.
- Give feedback as soon
after the event as possible.
- Give feedback only when
asked to do so, or when your offer of feedback is accepted.
Guidelines for Receiving Feedback
- Listen to feedback.
- Assume that feedback is
constructive.
- Use and consider only
those elements which are constructive, and consider them carefully.
- Pause and think before
responding.
- Ask to repeat if you
haven’t heard clearly.
- Ask for clarification or
examples if statements are unclear or unsupported.
- Accept negative and
positive feedback positively for consideration, rather than dismissively for
your protection.
- Ask for suggestions of
ways you might modify or change your behaviour.
- Respect the person giving
feedback, and thank them.
More on feedback