The Best Way To Give Feedback

We all have to give feedback sometimes — whether it's at work, in our relationships, or when we're doing something creative. Good feedback should help someone do better at something, so it's important to give it in a way that has value for the person receiving it.

Here's how to get started:

Be Mindful of the Other Person's Feelings

When planning what to say, focusing on the behavior, not the person, will make the feedback easier for people to hear. For example, instead of saying, "You're always late," — which might feel like a personal attack — you might say, "I noticed you were late to several meetings. I'd like you to come at the start so you can contribute."

Limit Your Feedback

Too much feedback can be overwhelming, so limit it to the most important issues. And only focus on the things the person can change, not the things they can't.

Start Your Feedback with Questions

Before starting your feedback, ask the other person how they're feeling and how they think they're doing. This allows the person to know they have an equal part in the conversation.

Use the Feedback Sandwich

Try sandwiching your negative feedback between two positives. For example, start your feedback with the person's strengths and the things they're doing well and should continue doing. Then talk about the areas that need improvement and how they can be improved. After you've done this, try ending on a positive — by reminding the person of what they're doing well, for example.

Support Doesn't Stop When the Meeting Ends

Before you end the meeting and thank the person for their time, make sure they know that you're there to continue offering support. This way, if the person has more questions or needs further feedback, they know they can come to you.

Questions

Can you tell me about a great boss you've had and what made them stand out?

Have you had any experience managing people? If yes, how did you find it? If not, do you think you would enjoy it?

If you were in charge of your workplace, what changes would you make?

What's the best career advice you've received?

How do you interpret the statement by Oscar De La Hoya, "There is always space for improvement, no matter how long you've been in the business"?