4 Steps to Better Constructive Feedback

Last week, I shared that the best bosses are good coaches. One element of being a good coach relates to the ability to deliver constructive feedback in a motivational way. This can be challenging, but I have a simple yet effective framework to help you thoughtfully prepare for feedback conversations, leading to more positive outcomes.

The BEAN Model for Constructive Feedback

In my leadership workshops, I share the BEAN model. Here's how it works:

• B – Describe the Behavior
• E – Share the Effect
• A – Ask for Input and Explore Alternatives
• N – Determine Next Steps

An Example

Let’s say you were leading a meeting where you asked employees for feedback on a new initiative. During the discussion, "Negative Nelly" muttered under her breath, but loud enough for everyone to hear, “I don’t know why you’re asking for our feedback; management is going to do what they want anyway.” You felt this comment was inappropriate and shifted the meeting in a negative direction, so you decide to give Nelly some feedback.

Using the BEAN Model, you might approach Nelly like this:

• Behavior: “Nelly, during the meeting, I overheard your comment about why we were asking for feedback when management was going to do what they wanted anyway.”
• Effect: “That comment took the meeting in a negative direction, and as a result, I don’t think we received as much participation as we could have.”
• Ask: “Can you share why you made that comment? What other thoughts do you have on the matter?”
• Next Steps: “Going forward, we’ve agreed that you’ll share concerns directly with me instead of in a public forum.”

Why the BEAN Model?

There are several feedback models out there, but I particularly like the BEAN Model because it encourages dialogue. Including a step where you ask for the other person’s input may uncover insights or perspectives you hadn’t considered. This approach allows for collaboration in finding solutions when appropriate.

Give the BEAN Model a try in your next constructive feedback conversation.

Join the Boss to Coach Group Coaching/Developing Cohort in October and practice this and other skills to be a more effective leader!

#feedback #coaching #leadershipdevelopment #communication #workplaceculture #careerdevelopment #hr #hrconsulting