7 Tips For Giving Positive Feedback
by Lyndsay Swinton
Giving positive feedback is one of the more enjoyable tasks in the
workplace. From the most senior to most junior, regular appropriate praise
can enhance job satisfaction and boost motivation.
But just saying 'thanks', 'well done', or 'great job' are
throwaway insincerities that can do more damage than good, so here are 7
tips for doing it well..
1. No Time Like Now
Feedback goes stale when left unsaid too long, so give positive feedback as
close to the event as possible.
2. In Public and In Private
Praise in public, criticise in private, that’s the rule. But before you go
singing a person’s praises from the roof-tops, think about what they would
prefer. Public praise of an extremely shy person may cause an emotional
response that overshadows your good intentions. Do what’s right for the
person.
3. Practice Makes Perfect
It’s easy to overlook good work or extra effort, so make it a habit to
praise regularly. Consider setting up a formal reward and recognition scheme
that everyone understands and can use.
4. Does the Reward Fit?
Keep the balloons and streamers for special occasions. Going over the top
with rewards can be mis-interpreted as “buying” favours. Judge the amount of
effort and reward appropriately.
5. No Favourites!
Avoid creating “favourites” by doing quick mental tallies of whom you’ve
praised recently.
6. Be Clear and Mean It
The best positive feedback is sincere and specific. Tell the person exactly
why you are praising them;
“Tony, that extra analysis was really appreciated by the project team and
allowed them to make a decision immediately”.
Tony now knows exactly what to do next time to get praise.
7. Catch People Doing Things Right
The more you catch people doing things right, the more right things they
will do! Encourage positive actions by letting people know when they do
things well. Start today, and in only three weeks time, giving positive
feedback will be a life-long habit.
By Lyndsay Swinton
Owner, Management for the Rest of Us
www.mftrou.com
About the Author
Lyndsay Swinton is owner of 'Management
for the rest of us' Visit her site and become an experienced manager,
overnight!
