Feedback refers to information given in response or reaction to a prior behavior in order to influence and bring about an adjustment of the current and future behavior of an individual or group. Feedback is an effective tool for gauging employee performance in the workplace. Effective feedback in the workplace causes the employees to be energized and motivated which in turn leads to productivity in the workplace and employee satisfaction. Feedback helps the employees to develop a sense of identity and to feel part of the organization (Dignen).
A manager can give effective feedback to employees, whether positive or constructive, first by giving and directing the feedback to the person it applies to and not the employees in general or to family members or friends or peers. When the feedback is positive, the person who took the action should be individually addressed and commended for their work. The same should be done when the feedback is constructive. The choice of the place and the moment the feedback is given is also of the essence. Positive feedback can be given in front of other employees, co- workers or even family members. Constructive feedback, on the other hand, should be done privately in order to show respect and regard for the employee and to encourage change and positive action. Effective feedback should not dwell on the past especially if it is constructive and should be forward looking. It should also be specific to a particular action and given with examples (Halogen Software).
When giving feedback, whether positive or constructive, I ensure that I address the right person directly and communicate the feedback in the most respectful and polite manner. Also, I ensure that the feedback is constructive, whether it is positive or negative and it is communicated in a way that encourages change or reinforcement of a positive action. When receiving feedback, I ensure that I am open minded and receptive to whatever feedback is given. In addition, I actively listen to the person giving the feedback and ensure that I take action based on the feedback given. As a result of giving effective feedback to a manager at a job I was working at, the employees were able to arrange a meeting with the managers and discuss issues that concerned them. Also, receiving feedback effectively helped me to act as a liaison between the employees and the management.
In my relationships, I should be more open and receptive to receiving feedback especially. Sometimes one attends a meeting with pre- set thoughts and conclusions on an issue and receiving constructive feedback is not easy. Also, when giving feedback, it is important that I learn to address people in a polite and helpful manner and not in a condescending tone that hinders them from receiving the feedback.
Works Cited
Dignen, Bob. Five Reasons why Feedback may be the Most Important Skill. Cambridge University Press, 2014. Web. July 15, 2016. http://www.cambridge.org/elt/blog/2014/03/five-reasons-feedback-may-important-skill/
Halogen Software. Employee Feedback Examples: The Good, The Bad and The Ugly, and how to Give Effective Feedback. 2016. Web. July 15, 2016. http://www.halogensoftware.com/learn/how-to/employee-feedback-examples-the-good-the-bad-and-the-ugly-and-how-to-give-effective-feedback
Lavoie, Andre. 4 Ways to get Truly Honest Feedback from Employees. 2015. Web. July 15, 2016. https://www.entrepreneur.com/article/246556
