Constructive Feedback as an essential tool for workplace excellence

Constructive Feedback as an essential tool for workplace excellence: How to deliver and receive it. Constructive feedback is supportive feedback given to individuals to identify solutions to areas of weakness they might have. It is used as a supportive communication tool to address specific issues and concerns. Providing constructive feedback to employees is essential because it shows how well said employees are performing and what can be done to improve their performance. Constructive feedback is a method through which positive behavior can be reinforced. The purpose of constructive feedback is to reinforce positive behavior that is beneficial to the organization. Constructive feedback is a healthy blend of praise for achievements and suggestions for improvement. Feedback is so crucial to the development of any individual and any organization. Most employees want to know what to do to improve their performance and, receiving constructive feedback can help them achieve their personal and organizational goals. It enhances employee and organizational performance and helps with professional growth. It also helps to clarify expectations. If feedback is not provided effectively, it can discourage and demotivate staff. It might seem straightforward, but you need to have certain considerations in mind when giving or receiving constructive feedback. Whatever side of criticism you fall on, it is not easy to either accept or give constructive feedback. As the recipient, you might feel a bit vulnerable, and as the giver, you might feel like the “bad” person or maybe you just dread having to be the one to hurt people’s feelings. Simple structure of feedback 1. State the purpose of the conversation. 2. Describe a specific observation in recent events. 3. Allow your employees respond. 4. Discuss solutions and set goals. 5. Summarize the key points and goals. 6. Express your belief in their capacity to succeed.

Ways to give Constructive Feedback. 1. Establish Trust If you want to give constructive feedback, it is necessary to establish trust with the recipient of this information. It is important to establish an open, trusting relationship with them. A foundation of trust creates the atmosphere for delivering and receiving feedback. It also helps prevent defensiveness and promote honest feedback receipt and delivery. They will be more likely to view your feedback as constructive when trust is established. 2. Ensure that the feedback is information specific. Ensure that your feedback is information specific, and that the feedback is justified. Build your case based on the facts available and not personal assumption or bias. Give the employee all the context, and background needed to deliver excellent results and receive this feedback. 3. Be Sincere Make sure that you sound like you mean what you are saying. Not just with your words, but with body language as well. Eye contact is important as well, so you can direct the conversation and maintain eye contact. Emotional Intelligence is key.