In today's fast-paced professional landscape people-management practices like feedback, coaching and recognition are more crucial than ever. Not only because they help individuals grow, but they also foster a positive organizational culture.
At Pwrteams, we believe in leveraging these powerful tools to enhance performance, promote learning and strengthen relationships. Therefore, with the help of Iryna Mandziuk, People Partner & L&D Specialist at Pwrteams Ukraine, we’ve dived deep into the hot topic of feedback. With a background in Psychology and 8 years of HR experience, Iryna is a certified ICF coach and a Life Long Learning ambassador. She specializes in soft skills training, helping individuals enhance their interpersonal and professional abilities. Her mission is to foster continuous growth and development in both personal and organizational settings.
Read on to find out what we've learned.
Definition of feedback
Feedback is information about a person’s performance, and it’s aimed at helping them achieve improvement. It can be:
- Constructive feedback: This type of feedback focuses mostly on areas where there is room for improvement. It also involves offering specific and actionable suggestions. For example, if a team member is struggling with meeting deadlines, constructive feedback would highlight this issue and offer specific suggestions on time management techniques or prioritization methods.
- Positive feedback: As the name suggests, it reinforces positive behaviors and accomplishments. For instance, acknowledging a colleague for their excellent presentation skills can encourage them to continue honing this strength. Positive feedback helps build confidence and reinforces desired behaviors.
The benefits of feedback
Effective feedback is a cornerstone of personal and professional growth. When delivered appropriately, feedback not only helps individuals understand their strengths and areas for improvement, but also promotes a culture of continuous learning and open communication within the organization. Here are some of the key benefits of feedback:
- Enhances performance: By identifying strengths and weaknesses, feedback helps individuals understand where they excel and where they need to improve. This targeted approach can lead to significant performance improvements. According to a Gallup survey, employees who receive regular feedback are more engaged and perform better.
- Promotes learning: Feedback fosters a culture of continuous learning and development. When employees receive regular feedback, they are more likely to seek out new learning opportunities and skills development. It encourages a growth mindset, where individuals are motivated to improve and learn from their experiences.
- Strengthens relationships: Providing and receiving feedback can build trust and improve communication between team members. It creates an environment where people feel valued and heard, which strengthens team cohesion. Therefore, teams with open feedback cultures are more innovative and effective.
The feedback process
Delivering and receiving feedback effectively requires a structured approach. By following a systematic process, you can ensure that feedback is both impactful and conducive to growth. Here are the essential steps in the feedback process:
- Prepare: Ensure your feedback is specific, timely and relevant. This involves gathering specific examples and data to support your feedback and choosing carrefully the right moment to deliver it. Proper preparation helps to make feedback more impactful and credible.
- Deliver: Communicate respectfully, focusing on behaviors rather than personal traits. Use "I" statements to express how the behavior impacts the team or project and offer constructive suggestions for improvement. This helps prevent defensiveness and fosters a more productive conversation.
- Receive: Be open to feedback as well, viewing it as a pathway to improvement. Encourage a two-way dialogue, where you listen actively and seek clarification if needed. Being open to feedback yourself shows that you value others' perspectives.
Feedback models
Furthermore, as a basis you can use models like OIS (observation + impact + suggestion) or OIC (observation + impact + coaching) to structure your feedback effectively:
- OIS model: A good example of this model is the following statement: "I noticed you handled the client meeting very well (observation). It made a great impression and helped secure the deal (impact). How about leading the next big client presentation as well (suggestion)?" This model ensures that feedback is specific and actionable.
- OIC model: This model can be demonstrated by the following example: "I observed that you missed the project deadline (observation). This caused a delay in our overall timeline (impact). What can you do to avoid such situations in the future (coaching)?". The OIC model combines feedback with coaching to support continued development.
Feedback is a GIFT
One more approach to feedback is to treat it as a gift, both for the giver and the receiver. As the giver, it's important to ensure that it is presented properly, using the right words, at the right time and in the right place. Be mindful of the recipient's feelings.
If you're receiving feedback, remember that you have the power to decide what to do with this gift. You can use it for your personal growth or, if it’s not appropriate, set it aside or pass it on to someone else.
Conclusion
Feedback is vital for personal and organizational success. By embracing this practice, you can create an environment where growth and appreciation thrive.
Start implementing these strategies to enhance your career and contribute to a positive workplace culture. Ask yourself: "What can I do differently tomorrow to promote a culture of feedback at work and in my private life?" By making small changes, you can significantly impact your personal growth and the overall environment around you.
Here, at Pwrteams, we recognize that feedback and recognition contribute to a thriving and supportive organizational culture. To become part of our exceptional team, check out our vacancies and apply.
