3: Provide effective feedback (3.18)
Feedback to reinforce strengths
The examples that you’ve seen in this lesson have focused on the most difficult kinds of feedback conversations: those in which the feedback giver is sharing a concern or developmental feedback.
Still, it’s important to remember that the feedback model that Michiel described (Share an observation, state its impact, pause, describe what you need, and brainstorm solutions or next steps) also applies to strengths-based feedback.
Studies show that when managers give feedback on strengths—that is, when they point out what employees do well and encourage employees to build on their strengths—that performance improves. In contrast, if managers only give feedback on areas for improvement, performance declines.
Therefore, as a leader, bring the intention to help to every feedback conversation. In some cases, this requires you to offer constructive observations about essential skills that require development. But in other—perhaps even more—cases, you will help your team by emphasizing and building on their strengths and successes.
As with any feedback, honesty is key. Don’t offer false compliments; instead offer clear, realistic, and sincere observations of strengths. Then, design or identify opportunities for your team to develop those strengths into areas of excellence.
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