15 Essential Tips for Giving Actionable Feedback

When your feedback makes others want to improve

Actionable feedback is valued and acted upon.

It’s specific, timely, and focused on the behavior that needs to change. It’s also delivered in a way that’s respectful and encouraging.

When you give actionable feedback, you help others to learn and grow. You also help to build trust and rapport.

How to give actionable feedback

1. Be specific

Don’t just say “good job” or “nice work.” Instead, be specific about what you liked about the person’s performance.

For example, you could say, “I really liked the way you handled that difficult customer.”

2. Be timely

Feedback is most effective when it’s given shortly after the behavior occurred. This gives the person a chance to remember what they did well and what they need to improve upon.

3. Focus on the behavior

When you’re giving feedback, focus on the specific behavior that you want the person to change. Avoid making personal attacks or criticizing the person’s character.

For example, instead of saying “You’re always late,” you could say “I’ve noticed that you’ve been late to work three times this week.”

4. Be respectful

Feedback should be delivered in a respectful and encouraging way. Avoid being condescending or judgmental.

Even if you’re giving negative feedback, be sure to do so in a way that’s respectful of the person’s feelings.

5. Be encouraging

Feedback should be focused on helping the person to improve, not on making them feel bad about themselves.

Be sure to end your feedback on a positive note by offering encouragement and support.

Benefits of giving actionable feedback

1. Helps others to learn and grow

When you give actionable feedback, you help others to learn and grow. This is because you’re providing them with specific information about what they need to do to improve.

2. Builds trust and rapport

When you give actionable feedback, you build trust and rapport with others. This is because you’re showing them that you’re invested in their success.

3. Improves performance

When people receive actionable feedback, they’re more likely to improve their performance. This is because they have a clear understanding of what they need to do to improve.

Conclusion

Giving actionable feedback is an essential skill for anyone who wants to be a successful leader or manager. By following the tips in this article, you can give feedback that will help others to learn, grow, and improve their performance.