Sprint 49 :: The Art of Feedback Delivery
Feedback is the lifeblood of progress in any organization. As a Product Manager, you know that delivering feedback effectively is key to driving change and improvement.
In this article, we'll dive into the world of feedback delivery, breaking it down into three main subtopics that make the process more fun and focused. We'll explore the importance of delivering feedback in real time, the art of segmenting praise for criticism, and how to create a feedback culture that drives and support behavior change.
Real Time
One of the key principles of effective feedback delivery is delivering it in real time. Sometimes, if we wait too much time, we lose the context and the opportunity. Real-time feedback not only captures the moment when behaviors and actions are most relevant but also makes the process more engaging. Here's how to make it fun and focused:
a. Make it Timely: Timing is everything when delivering feedback. If you notice something positive or an area that needs improvement, don't wait. Deliver feedback promptly while it's fresh in everyone's minds. By addressing it immediately, you'll create a sense of urgency and relevance that encourages your team to take action.
b. Use different platforms: In the digital age, technology can be your best friend in delivering real-time feedback. Consider using feedback tools and apps to capture feedback moments as they happen. This not only streamlines the process but also makes it more interactive and engaging for both the giver and receiver.
c. Encourage Peer Feedback: Encourage team members to provide feedback to each other in real time. This creates a culture of continuous improvement and helps to distribute the responsibility of feedback delivery across the team.
Praise & Support for Criticism
Delivering effective feedback is not just about pointing out flaws; it's also about recognizing and celebrating successes. Segmenting praise for criticism adds a fun and positive dimension to the feedback process.
a. The Sandwich Technique: While this technique has been around for a while, it's still effective. Begin with praise, deliver the critical feedback, and end with more praise. This approach softens the blow of criticism, making it easier for the receiver to accept and act on the feedback.
b. Be Specific: When delivering praise, be specific about what you're celebrating. Generic compliments can feel insincere and lack impact. On the flip side, when giving criticism, also be specific about the behavior that needs improvement. Vague feedback won't lead to actionable change.
c. Balance: Ensure that praise and criticism are balanced over time. Consistently emphasizing the positive aspects and recognizing achievements will motivate your team to continue excelling. This balance creates a feedback culture that's both fun and results-driven.
Focus on Behavior Change
Feedback is not just about providing information; it's about driving behavior change. To make the feedback process more fun and focused on behavior change.
a. Set Clear Goals: Clearly define the desired behavior or outcome you want to see as a result of the feedback. Ensure that these goals are specific, measurable, and achievable. This clarity helps both the giver and receiver to align their efforts towards a common goal.
b. Collaborate on Action Plans: Make feedback a collaborative process by involving the receiver in the development of action plans. Encourage them to take ownership of their improvement journey. This collaborative approach fosters a sense of partnership and commitment.
c. Follow Up: To ensure feedback leads to actual behavior change, follow up regularly. Check in on progress, celebrate milestones, and provide additional feedback as needed. This ongoing feedback loop keeps the process engaging and ensures that changes are sustained.
Mastering the art of feedback delivery is an essential skill for any Product Manager. Making the process fun and focused involves delivering feedback in real time, segmenting praise for criticism and focusing on behavior change.
By following these strategies, we can create a positive feedback culture that not only motivates your team but also drives real, meaningful improvement.
So, go ahead, have fun with feedback, and watch your product and team thrive.
The Product Land ⛰️
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