Keith Ferrazzi writes, “EVERYONE can benefit from feedback – even, in fact especially, the ones who have trouble understanding that caring criticism is a gift, not a personal attack.”

A recipe for valuable feedback includes the following ingredients:

-specific comments

-concrete examples
-an explanation why the demonstrated behavior was positive or negative or somewhere in-between

-a review of lessons learned

-thoughts of how to improve in the future

-links to individual and strategic objectives

Mix all of the ingredients together using a convenient tool for recording information and return to it regularly.

Provide comments that address specific skills, which are beneficial to both the individual and the organization. For example:

Instead of saying, “you were a great help on this project”

Say, “you took the other employee under your wing and consistently showed him how to think proactively on the project by giving positive suggestions”

Explain why an action was positive by tying it to how it can help the employee meet individual and organizational objectives.

Document dates and specific examples of when an employee demonstrated a specific skill.

In addition, ask employees to keep their own record of accomplishments and jobs well done. These notes should include lessons learned and ways to improve in the future.

Mix well and compare notes.

References:

Ferrazzi, Keith. “Are Some People too Sensitive for Feedback?” The Blog of Keith Ferrazzi. [www.keithferrazzi.com]. August 4, 2009.