Feedback Workshop: Typical feedback mistakes

Summary

This video discusses key mistakes people make when giving or receiving feedback in a professional setting. It highlights common errors such as the 'feedback sandwich,' giving untimely feedback, using inappropriate appreciation language, downgrading positive praise, and indirect communication like the 'greaser approach' and 'feedback triangle.' The video also emphasizes the importance of direct, honest communication and understanding individual preferences for recognition, referencing the 'Five Languages of Appreciation.' By avoiding these mistakes, feedback can be more effective and foster trust and collaboration in teams.

Takeaways

• 😀 Feedback Sandwich is a mistake—avoid mixing positive feedback with negative feedback, as it weakens the message.
• 😀 Untimely feedback is ineffective—deliver feedback as soon as possible after the behavior occurs to make it more impactful.
• 😀 Using the wrong language of appreciation can undermine feedback—understand the preferred appreciation style of each individual.
• 😀 Downgrading positive praise leads to missed recognition—accept praise with gratitude instead of brushing it off.
• 😀 The Greaser Approach (blaming the group) creates mistrust—address personal concerns directly instead of hiding behind general statements.
• 😀 The Feedback Triangle (going through intermediaries) creates confusion—always provide feedback directly to the person concerned.
• 😀 Be clear and direct in both positive and constructive feedback—avoid hiding criticism within compliments.
• 😀 The Five Languages of Appreciation help tailor feedback—understand whether someone values words, time, service, or other forms of recognition.
• 😀 Avoid surprise feedback during performance evaluations—ensure feedback is timely and relevant to the behavior observed.
• 😀 Feedback should build trust—address issues directly to avoid creating barriers or misunderstandings.
• 😀 Feedback should be specific—describe the behavior or action, not the person, to ensure clarity and understanding.

Q & A

What is a 'Feedback Sandwich' and why is it considered ineffective?

A 'Feedback Sandwich' involves giving negative feedback surrounded by positive feedback. While the intention is to soften the criticism, it often dilutes both the positive and negative messages, making them unclear and ineffective. Direct and clear feedback is more impactful.

Why is timely feedback important and what mistake do people commonly make regarding timing?

Timely feedback ensures that the individual can immediately act on the feedback and make necessary changes. A common mistake is delaying feedback until performance evaluations, which may lead to confusion and missed opportunities for improvement.

What are the Five Languages of Appreciation, and how can they improve feedback delivery?

The Five Languages of Appreciation are words of affirmation, quality time, acts of service, tangible gifts, and physical touch. Understanding and using the appropriate language for each individual helps ensure that feedback and recognition are meaningful and well-received.

What is the problem with downgrading positive feedback?

When individuals downplay or dismiss positive feedback (e.g., saying 'it was nothing'), it undermines the value of the praise. A simple 'Thank you' is the best response to positive feedback, as it reinforces a culture of appreciation.

What is the 'Greaser Approach' in giving feedback, and why should it be avoided?

The 'Greaser Approach' involves giving feedback as if it’s coming from a group rather than your own perspective. For example, saying 'People have mentioned...' instead of 'I think...'. This tactic creates mistrust and lacks clarity, so it’s better to take personal ownership of feedback.

What is a feedback triangle, and why is it detrimental to trust?

A feedback triangle occurs when feedback is not delivered directly to the person it concerns, but is instead passed through a third party. This creates mistrust and confusion, as the person receiving the feedback may feel bypassed or misrepresented.

How can delivering feedback directly to the person improve the process?

Delivering feedback directly ensures clarity and transparency, fostering trust and respect. It also allows for a more constructive conversation and helps the recipient take immediate action based on clear feedback.

Why should feedback be given immediately after a behavior is observed?

Immediate feedback helps the recipient understand the behavior and its impact in real time. Delaying feedback reduces its effectiveness, as the individual may forget the context or fail to make the connection to the behavior.

What is the ideal way to respond to positive feedback?

The ideal response to positive feedback is to simply say 'Thank you.' Acknowledging praise confidently reinforces the positive behavior and contributes to a culture of appreciation.

How can understanding the recipient's preferred language of appreciation impact feedback effectiveness?

By understanding whether someone prefers words of affirmation, acts of service, quality time, etc., you can tailor your feedback and recognition to resonate with them personally. This makes the feedback more meaningful and increases its positive impact.