Are you still using the old-fashioned "CONVENTIONAL SANDWICH" feedback method? Forget it and embrace the more powerful way of feedback.

In engineering terms, a feedback mechanism is a fundamental mechanism to maintain and regulate the system's performance.

It involves the process of continuously monitoring the output of a system and feeding this information back to the input to enable the system to adjust and produce desired, improved output.

?Similarly, feedback is also required for humans to improve our performance. Feedback is the indispensable compass/GPS guiding us through the twists and turns of personal and professional growth. It is a strong yet gentle way to guide, correct and improvise someone. It is such a delicate, fine art that it can easily make or break the morale, confidence and motivation of someone to improvise.

?And yet, today, many people still follow the outdated "CONVENTIONAL SANDWICH" method to offer feedback. In this article, I will dissect this ineffective approach.

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??? The Conventional Sandwich Feedback Mechanism

Let's unwrap the classic "Sandwich Feedback Mechanism."

?? Layer 1: A dose of Positivity

Like the crispy, fluffy outer layer of a sandwich, we start with a compliment. It's like the warm-up before a main workout, boosting the morale and setting the tone for a positive dialogue.

??? Layer 2: Core meaty Critique

Criticism, like spicy mustard, is the absolute crux. It's the heart of the matter. This layer is loaded with actionable insights, the real game-changer in the feedback process. Magic happens here, and growth takes root. ??

??? Layer 3: The identity crisis

Close the sandwich with another sprinkle of Positivity. It's like the final bite, leaving a lingering taste of encouragement. ??

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??? The Pitfall of the Classic Approach

Picture acing a presentation. Your manager applauds and commends your engaging visuals. While you bask in the praise, he highlights a statistic flaw. Now, while you are trying to understand his perspective and get more insights about the issue, he praises your delivery style and representation of statistical data.

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The message gets muddled. Fixing the statistic flaw fades amidst the praise for visuals, delivery style and statistical representation.

The mixed messages leave the receiver unsure about the quantum of error and the urgency to correct the issue in the glow of the closing compliment.

?????????????? While you may not have noticed this situation while giving feedback, you would have definitely experienced such a situation while receiving feedback.

?There are fundamental problems with this approach:

?? Get lost in layers of emotions - Like trying to savour a specific flavour in a sandwich but getting overwhelmed by the combination of emotions.

?? Sub-optimal diluted message - Too much praise might overshadow the need for improvement, just like too many condiments dilute the sandwich's main ingredients.

?? Confused recipient on urgency to correct - Mixed messages create uncertainty about the severity/urgency of the issues at hand. It's like having a treasure map without marking the buried treasure.

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???♂? Alternative: Skewed-Sandwich Feedback approach ???

The alternate method is a much better, refined, and powerful approach that I've discovered and applied extensively – the secret sauce for fostering growth. ??

?It has just enough Positivity to motivate, sufficient criticism to inspire growth, and a clear closing for clarity. It's not just feedback; it's a personalized journey towards excellence. ??

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?? Action Points

Ditching excessive layers ensures the recipient doesn't get lost in emotions. Instead, they leave invigorated ready to tackle challenges.

This is a refined, tailored version of the conventional sandwich method, with differentiation evident in the proportions of each layer.

????? 1st Layer - Moderate Positivity -

Trim this layer. Keep it moderate, just enough to motivate but NOT to overshadow the meaty middle.

??? 2nd Layer - Meaty Middle Layer -

Bulk up this layer. Include much?constructive criticism, valuable insights, and substantial directions.

?? 3rd Layer - Severly Downsize -

Almost trash this layer. Limit the closure to a summary of improvement actions without a shower of excessive praise.

?This approach doesn't just deliver critique; it creates a refreshing experience, leaving the recipient ready to conquer challenges.

??? For the Full Recipe to tailor the delivery of the meaty middle layer of feedback --> Check out Part 4 of the Feedback series. ??

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??? Conclusion: The Power of Thoughtful Feedback ??

Giving feedback is an art and a thoughtful responsibility. It can build or break morale. The traditional sandwich might seem comforting, but the Skewed Sandwich offers a clearer path to actionable insights without unnecessary distractions and is purely focused on accelerated growth.

As leaders and managers, this is your secret sauce, not only to strengthen your team but also for your professional growth.

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So, the next time you're serving feedback, ditch the ordinary sandwich and opt for a more nuanced and tailored Skew-feedback approach that ensures thoughtful, direct, and authentic feedback for the best, efficient results. Your colleagues will thank you for a more fulfilling feedback experience.

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Let's make the feedback journey a roadmap to excellence! ???

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