What do you do if your feedback to colleagues is causing more harm than good?

2 Seek Input

It's beneficial to seek input from others to gain perspective on how your feedback is perceived. You might talk to a trusted colleague or a mentor about your approach and ask for their honest opinion. Sometimes, an outside perspective can highlight aspects of your feedback style that you may not be aware of. This can help you understand the impact of your words and actions on your colleagues and guide you in adjusting your approach accordingly.

3 Adjust Style

Once you've gained insight into how your feedback may be causing harm, it's time to adjust your communication style. This might involve softening your language, being more empathetic, or ensuring that feedback sessions are a two-way conversation. Remember that the goal of feedback is to support and enable your colleagues, not to undermine their confidence. By being adaptable and willing to modify your approach, you can create a more positive and productive feedback environment.

4 Offer Support

After adjusting your approach, offer additional support to those who have been affected by previous feedback. This could mean providing resources, mentoring, or simply being available for further discussion. Make it clear that your intention is to help your colleagues succeed and that you're committed to their professional development. By offering support, you demonstrate that your feedback comes from a place of genuine care and interest in their progress.

5 Encourage Dialogue

Encouraging open dialogue is key to ensuring that feedback is a constructive tool rather than a source of conflict. Invite your colleagues to share their thoughts and feelings about the feedback process. This not only helps you understand their perspective but also fosters a culture of mutual respect and continuous improvement. Open communication can lead to more effective collaboration and a stronger team dynamic.

6 Monitor Impact

Finally, it's important to monitor the impact of the changes you've made to your feedback approach. Observe how your colleagues respond to your adjusted style and whether it leads to improved relations and performance. Be prepared to make further changes if necessary, and continue to seek feedback on your feedback. This ongoing process will help you refine your communication skills and become a more effective leader and team player.

7 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?