Examples of Feedback
There are several ways positive feedback can be given to employees, including with formal reviews, after completing a project, after taking on additional responsibilities, and through general communication. Let's take a closer look at each of these.
When it comes to formal reviews, most companies have a specific review process, whether it is annually or more frequently. During these reviews, managers often discuss the employee's work and how well they were able to meet individual and organizational goals. Even if there are problems to be discussed, it's vital to offer positive feedback and tell the employee the things they're doing right. By offering complimentary comments for good areas of an employee's performance, they'll be more willing to work on the areas that aren't as successful. This will help clarify expectations and encourage them to perform at a higher level moving forward.
When a project or assignment is completed, it's a natural time to offer positive feedback to employees for their focus and dedication to complete the task. As with the formal review, offering encouraging words will inspire employees to push themselves and achieve greater results.
There are also often short-term or one-time activities that pop up that employees may need to add their regular workload. When an employee takes on additional responsibilities, a leader needs to be sure to thank and give positive kudos to the employee.
Leaders have a powerful influence in the lives of their employees, especially when they've created a trusting relationship. In fact, trust is essential to effective management and employee interaction. One way to strengthen trust and loyalty is to recognize employees on a regular basis through general communication. Has a week gone by without complimenting or acknowledging the efforts of each of the team members? If so, it's time to give each person some positive feedback.
As a manager, you may also feel overwhelmed, stressed, overworked, or unappreciated. You may even feel like your work goes unnoticed. Because of this, it can be easy to become negative. However, you must remember that your team can only achieve greater success when they have a good attitude, support, and the direction of a positive leader. As the manager, you have the power to change the culture by encouraging your team on a regular basis. Here are some potential questions to ask yourself about your team and its effectiveness and how to respond if the answers are positive.
- Is your assistant doing a great job keeping you organized? Make sure you tell him or her how much you appreciate him or her.
- Is your team consistently on time? Thank them for being prompt and conscious of time.
- Does your team get along well? Let them know you appreciate their teamwork and support of one another.
- Do you have methods to celebrate successes? Create a plan to offer different types of positive feedback that's appropriate for each victory.
Lesson Summary
Let's review what we've learned. Positive feedback is the action of acknowledging good performance, extra efforts, and the contribution made by an employee. It can be a simple action, as simple as thanking employees for something they've done recently. You can offer a supportive word, a thank you or an acknowledgement of a job well done. While offering positive feedback during formal reviews is important, take opportunities for regular and consistent encouragement and support. It will help motivate your team, and make your employees more happy in their jobs.
