How can you overcome resistance to feedback on expense reports?

2 Choose the right method

The method you use to give feedback on expense reports can also influence how it is received and acted upon. Depending on the situation, you might choose to give feedback verbally, in writing, or in a combination of both. Verbal feedback can be more personal and interactive, allowing you to address questions and concerns on the spot. Written feedback can be more detailed and documented, providing a record of the issues and recommendations. However, both methods have their drawbacks, such as misinterpretation, tone, and timing. Choose the method that best suits the context and the recipient, and be consistent and timely with your feedback.

3 Focus on facts and solutions

One of the main reasons why employees resist feedback on expense reports is that they feel attacked or blamed for their mistakes or choices. To avoid this, you need to focus on facts and solutions, not opinions and judgments. Use objective data and evidence to support your feedback, and avoid using words that imply blame, such as "you should have" or "you failed to". Instead, use words that imply collaboration, such as "we can" or "let's try". Also, don't just point out the problems, but offer suggestions and resources to help your employees improve their expense reporting skills and habits.

4 Encourage dialogue and feedback

Feedback on expense reports should not be a one-way communication, but a two-way dialogue that fosters learning and improvement. Encourage your employees to share their perspectives, challenges, and ideas on expense reporting, and listen to their feedback with an open mind. Acknowledge their strengths and achievements, as well as their areas for improvement. Ask them what they need from you to make their expense reporting easier and better, and provide them with the support and guidance they need. By involving your employees in the feedback process, you can build trust and rapport, and motivate them to take ownership of their expense reporting.

5 Follow up and monitor progress

The last step to overcome resistance to feedback on expense reports is to follow up and monitor progress. Feedback is not a one-time event, but a continuous cycle that requires action and evaluation. After you give feedback, check in with your employees regularly to see how they are implementing the changes and recommendations. Provide them with positive reinforcement and recognition when they improve, and constructive feedback and coaching when they need more help. Track and measure the results of the feedback, and adjust your approach as needed. By following up and monitoring progress, you can ensure that your feedback leads to positive outcomes and behaviors.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?