Business Builder Bob - Constructive Feedback #2

We are off to a good start with the first three steps. The recipient of the constructive feedback is open minded and your specific observations for improvement have been stated. Now it is time for some discussion.

First, state your reaction to what you have observed..."seeing you chew gum in front of customers gives you an unprofessional appearence in my mind". Or, for a parent..."when you don't call to say you have safely reached your destination, I worry". This is your observationand the objective of this element is to state how it affects you personally.

Don't fall into the trap of saying howing it affects others. Your reactiion to the observation becomes less credible and may become a point of discussion that sidetracks your constructive feedback session.

Second, it is time to see what the recipient of the feedback thinks. This is their opportunity to respond and to clarify. Be a good listener to make sure they are receiving what you are sending. Be a good listener to make sure you understand their point of view which may completely explain the behavior. On some occasions, you may find they are doing the right thing and your observations were misleading.

If you were brief in your description of your observation and of your reaction, the recipient should still be open minded and ready to participate in a good two way improvement discussion.