Here's how you can amplify teamwork and collaboration in the workplace using feedback.

Create an environment where open dialogue is not just welcomed but valued as a fundamental element of success. This involves establishing platforms and avenues where team members feel empowered to express their thoughts, opinions, and suggestions without apprehension. Encourage active listening and empathy to ensure that feedback is received and comprehended effectively.

People want to feel that they are being listened to making active listening truly important for collaborating in groups or in one-on-one discussions. Active listening means that you are not trying to interject your opinion, but rather leaving the other person the space to express themselves, while you absorb and occasionally summarize what they have said. It is also important to avoid behaviors that signal your disinterest (sighing and interrupting) because this could cause the other person to shut down or, worse, get angry. It is far more productive to listen and summarize and then ask questions that are meant to clarify points you didn't quite understand. This proactive attitude makes for better, more robust professional relationships.

One rule I have used is for every three positives to insert one negative in my feedback. The order of these is important though! In France, people shut down completely and get hostile if you start with a criticism, so it is better to state positives first. This is the opposite of anglo-saxon behavior where normally one wants the bad news first and then the good news to cheer them up afterwards. When giving criticisms, always give a counter-example so that it demonstrates the constructive quality. Just saying something is "bad" doesn't help the other person improve unless it is followed by a helpful suggestion. Also be aware of the emotional state of your interlocuter because if they are already on the defensive, you should wait.

I always felt that the activities I organized were always far more powerful and impactful if I integrated some kind of tribal success factor to them. At different times, I created t-shirts for events to give out at the end so that we could do a memorable group photo at the end. Another idea I had was creating a Ninja Warrior exam that, if passed following the class, would be rewarded by a Ninjago Lego character. People loved this form of recognition to put on their desks and word got around and folks would try harder in order to win one of my Ninjas. These are inexpensive and small in their execution, but have wide-ranging results in positive morale and a feeling of fun and belonging for the participants.

Recognize teamwork: When providing feedback, acknowledge how individual efforts contributed to the overall team achievement. Reward collaborative behaviors: Incentivize team members who actively seek out feedback, share knowledge, and support each other's success.