Going into a feedback session prepared puts you in control and means you have a strategy. Sure you don't know how the other person will respond, but you will have a clear idea over the outcomes you want.
Follow these tips and get prepared.
- Be clear on why you are having the conversation and your desired outcome.
- Choose the appropriate time and venue.
- Know that you don't know all of the answers. Prepare some open questions to help you understand.
- Be prepared to listen and be open minded. You simply don't know what is going on in their world.
- Prepare to be compassionate and understanding.
- Focus on outcomes. There is always a solutions.
- Get evidence or clear example, rather than sweeping statements or subjective comments.
Tell your story
Share with them what you have seen, experienced, observed or any trends in data. Explain the context and what you believe the impact or consequence has been of their behaviour or action.
Then ask them to share their story.
Their story
Listen to their version of events. If they go off track, try and bring them back to the topic. Ask open questions, there maybe mitigating circumstances or other key dependents that have prevented them from meeting your standards. Allow them to be heard.
Move to solutions
Now you understand the situation from their perspective, you are in a better position to help find a solution.
You may have some ideas, but listen to their suggestions too. They might already know what they need.
Top Tip
Feedback should be given as soon as possible. If you wait more than 14 days the positive impact is virtually non-existent.
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