Here's how you can make feedback in your social impact career constructive and helpful.

I strongly believe in the importance of empathy, especially when giving feedback. Recognizing that behind every piece of work there's a person with feelings and aspirations is crucial for building positive and productive relationships. Approaching feedback sessions with empathy not only creates a safe environment but also strengthens trust and mutual respect. By putting yourself in the recipient's shoes, you demonstrate sensitivity and understanding, which facilitates more open and constructive communication. This approach promotes a more collaborative work environment and encourages the personal and professional growth of everyone involved.

It's definitely important to frame feedback with empathy and generosity, and with as much specificity as possible. I always try to zero in on giving feedback that is precise and actionable. One thing though that is often overlooked is the opportunity feedback allows for collaboration. See this as an opportunity to grow in relationship and trust with your colleague, which is a perspective shift: Rather than perhaps seeing a fire that needs to be put out, frame it as a challenge we can solve together.

Uno de los grandes desafíos a a hora de comunicar, es el de ser específico. Se trata de optimizar los recursos estilísticos del idioma de modo tal que nuestros comentarios no parezcan simples "bullet points" sino que conduzcan hacia un esquema superior de pensamiento. Acompa?ar con algún dato específico nuestro comentario puede ayudar a construir la comprensión en los públicos y hace que nuestros aportes sean mejor percibidos. Por último, dejar una reflexión final (abierta y para reflexionar) o un cierre consolidado (cerrado y contundente), son dos caminos que generan feedback en los destinatarios.

I completely agree that vague feedback can be more harmful than helpful. When providing feedback, it's crucial to be specific and clear, highlighting both strengths and areas for improvement. This approach not only makes the feedback more actionable but also provides the recipient with a precise understanding of what is being assessed and what actions can be taken to progress. By giving concrete examples, you demonstrate a genuine commitment to helping the individual grow and develop their skills. Specific feedback not only reinforces positive behaviors but also offers clear guidance for achieving better outcomes in the future.

I strongly advocate for maintaining balance when giving feedback. Striving for a balanced approach, acknowledging what's going well alongside areas for improvement, is key. The "sandwich" method—positive feedback followed by constructive criticism and ending on a positive note—can indeed help maintain motivation and prevent discouragement. It's crucial to remember that the aim of feedback is to inspire development, not diminish morale. By offering a balanced perspective, individuals are more likely to feel supported and motivated to grow, fostering a positive and constructive feedback culture within teams and organizations.

I believe that feedback should not be a one-way street. Encouraging dialogue by asking questions and inviting the recipient to share their perspective is essential. This exchange can lead to a deeper understanding of the challenges faced and can aid in the co-creation of solutions that are more likely to be effective and adopted. Active participation in the feedback process empowers individuals and promotes ownership of their growth. By fostering an environment of open communication and mutual respect, we can facilitate meaningful discussions that drive continuous improvement and development.

I strongly believe that it's not enough to simply point out areas for improvement; offering support to help your colleagues address these areas is equally crucial. Whether through guidance, resources, or time, showing that you're invested in their success is paramount. Supportive feedback demonstrates that you're committed not only to the outcome but also to the individual's journey in achieving it. By providing assistance and encouragement, you foster a collaborative and nurturing environment where everyone can thrive and grow. This approach not only enhances team dynamics but also fosters a culture of mutual support and continuous improvement.

Ultimately, feedback should be a continuous process. Schedule follow-up meetings to discuss progress and address any new challenges that may have arisen. These check-ins demonstrate that you value continuous improvement and are committed to supporting long-term development. They also keep lines of communication open, reinforcing a culture of mutual support and collaboration. By regularly revisiting goals and providing ongoing guidance, individuals are better equipped to adapt to changing circumstances and achieve sustainable growth. This approach fosters a dynamic and resilient environment where everyone feels empowered to continuously learn and improve.