Feedback is frequently viewed as uncomfortable to give and to receive. Because of this, many business leaders have trouble giving consistent, honest feedback to their employees. However, honest feedback is necessary to an employee’s professional development. Here are some common myths about giving feedback that are preventing you from giving employees the feedback they need:
Giving Feedback Will Ruin Your Reputation
It’s fairly common to think that giving honest feedback will put you at odds with your employees or make them perceive you as unkind. This myth can make you feel extremely nervous when giving feedback. When you are acting nervous while giving an employee feedback, they pick up on that nervousness making them more anxious about the feedback you’re about to give them. To combat this, try to change your mindset about feedback from “bad news”, to “information that will help employees improve.” This will reduce both yours and your employee’s nervousness.
Feedback Needs to be Prepared
Most think that feedback should only be given at performance reviews after extensive thought, armed with an array of notes and examples. This isn’t always the case. In fact, casual, in-the-moment feedback can be more helpful than planned feedback. Attempt to create a norm of giving negative and positive feedback in the moment so that employees can respond and improve more quickly.
Nobody Wants Feedback
With the discomfort and general negativity surrounding feedback, some may assume that the business world would be better off without feedback. This is not true. Feedback is a fantastic way for a company to improve and grow. Additionally, feedback provides a way to create an honest, open culture that will increase productivity and happiness. Providing opportunities to give and receive feedback will make your company a better place.
Readdressing these myths will make feedback more effective and less uncomfortable in your company.