How can you give feedback and recognition to your team virtually?

1 Choose the right channel

Depending on the type and purpose of your feedback and recognition, you may want to use different channels to communicate with your team. For example, you can use email or chat for quick and informal feedback and recognition, such as acknowledging a completed task or praising a good idea. However, for more detailed and constructive feedback and recognition, you may want to use video or phone calls, as they allow you to convey your tone, emotions, and body language more clearly. You can also use video or phone calls to solicit feedback from your team and have a two-way conversation.

2 Be specific and timely

When giving feedback and recognition virtually, it is important to be specific and timely. This means that you should provide concrete examples of what your team did well or what they need to improve, and link them to the goals and expectations of the project or the organization. You should also give feedback and recognition as soon as possible after the relevant event or behavior, so that your team can remember it and act on it. Avoid vague or general feedback and recognition, such as "good job" or "you need to work harder", as they do not help your team understand what they did right or wrong, or how they can improve.

3 Balance positive and negative feedback

Another tip for giving feedback and recognition virtually is to balance positive and negative feedback. Positive feedback and recognition can boost your team's morale, confidence, and performance, while negative feedback can help your team identify and correct their mistakes and gaps. However, too much of either can have adverse effects, such as complacency, resentment, or demotivation. Therefore, you should aim to give more positive than negative feedback, and use the sandwich method, which is to start and end with positive feedback, and insert negative feedback in the middle. This way, you can reinforce your team's strengths, while also addressing their weaknesses in a constructive way.

4 Customize your feedback and recognition

One of the challenges of giving feedback and recognition virtually is that you may not be able to observe your team's reactions and preferences as closely as in person. Therefore, you should try to customize your feedback and recognition according to your team's personality, style, and needs. For example, some team members may prefer to receive feedback and recognition privately, while others may appreciate public recognition. Some team members may respond well to direct and honest feedback, while others may need more empathy and support. Some team members may value verbal praise, while others may prefer tangible rewards or opportunities. You can ask your team for their feedback preferences, or use personality tests or assessments to learn more about them.

5 Celebrate achievements and milestones

Finally, giving feedback and recognition virtually also involves celebrating achievements and milestones with your team. This can help your team feel appreciated, connected, and motivated, as well as foster a positive team culture. You can celebrate achievements and milestones by sending congratulatory messages, cards, or gifts, by organizing virtual parties, games, or social events, or by sharing success stories, testimonials, or case studies. You can also involve your team in setting and tracking goals, and reward them for reaching them. Celebrating achievements and milestones can also provide opportunities for giving feedback and recognition to your team.

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?