Feedback is a crucial element of capacity development, as it helps individuals and teams improve their skills, knowledge, and performance. However, giving and receiving feedback can be challenging, especially when it involves criticism or negative aspects. How do you balance positive and constructive feedback for optimal motivation and performance? Here are some tips and methods to consider.
The purpose of feedback
Providing feedback should include a two-way element, and invite perspective on the organization and leadership culture in the response to feedback. Participants should know active listening skills. This balances the behavior discussion and normalizes it as means to generate positive ideas in a dialogue.
Giving feedback should also considered the state of confidence of the one being given feedback. Some feedback given at the wrong time can make or break individuals who are fragile. Always be sensitive to give feedback that you are willing to support the recipient to implement. So sensitivity to state of mind and timing of the feedback go together.
The types of feedback
Feedback that is dealing with character can be implemented and support build positive capacity. Constructive feedback emphasizes on the attitudes, behavior and character and not the person. The feedback that focuses on the personal traits that can’t be changed kill the spirit of enthusiasm.
The response to feedback
Feedback is not a one-way communication, but a two-way dialogue that requires active listening and engagement from both parties. Therefore, it is important to consider how to respond to feedback, whether you are giving or receiving it. When giving feedback, you should invite questions, comments, or feedback from the receiver, and listen attentively and empathetically to their perspective. You should also acknowledge their strengths, achievements, or efforts, and offer support, encouragement, or resources to help them improve or sustain their performance. When receiving feedback, you should thank the giver for their time, input, or feedback, and express your appreciation or gratitude. You should also ask for clarification, examples, or suggestions if needed, and avoid being defensive, argumentative, or dismissive. You should also reflect on the feedback, and act on it accordingly.
Feedback can have many benefits for both individuals and teams involved in capacity development. It can help improve performance, quality, or efficiency of work, as well as enhance skills, knowledge, or competencies. It can also increase motivation, satisfaction, or engagement, as well as foster trust, collaboration, or innovation. Feedback can also help identify strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, or threats, as well as monitor progress, measure results, or evaluate impact. Feedback can also help create a culture of learning, feedback, and improvement within the organization or the project.
