Feedback Tips Weekly (Archived)

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Cameron Conaway (@cameronconaway) When should I give feedback to new teammates? This is a question I often hear from both new people managers and more seasoned people managers who are welcoming new colleagues. The underlying intention of the question is always good; the manager wants to … Read more

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Cameron Conaway (@cameronconaway) What is the feedback sandwich? A feedback sandwich is a way to frame negative feedback by “sandwiching” it between two positive feedback comments. What’s the purpose of the feedback sandwich? The feedback givers I’ve talked to posit these three reasons: Givers say that … Read more

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Cameron Conaway (@cameronconaway) Among the many ways to seek feedback, the most obvious and certainly the most discussed is directly asking another person for feedback. We may do this directly by asking questions like: In 1983, researchers Ashford and Cummings referred to this as feedback-seeking behavior. … Read more

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Cameron Conaway (@cameronconaway) Many feedback receivers think the journey ends with adopting the feedback, but a vital part is getting feedback about your adoption. At my doctor’s office today, I saw a sign similar to this: In essence — the hospital system used feedback about their … Read more

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Cameron Conaway (@cameronconaway) That a feedback receiving mindset is even necessary is news to some. And it’s not just news; it’s a mega dose of empowerment. In feedback training I’ve delivered, I’ve watched in real-time as early-in-career employees shifted their perspective — from wanting to learn … Read more

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Cameron Conaway (@cameronconaway) Effective feedback should always be delivered as close to the observed behavior as possible. But there are times when delaying feedback is the best choice. Let’s explore why. The topic of when to delay feedback can be challenging, particularly because it’s clear that … Read more

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Cameron Conaway (@cameronconaway) Constructive feedback can challenge feedback receivers on many levels — including emotionally. Depending on the work context, the content, and even how it was delivered, it may trigger past traumas that make it especially difficult for the receiver. That was my experience. And … Read more

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Cameron Conaway (@cameronconaway) Feelings are trailheads that lead to insight. When I speak about the role of feelings in feedback, I typically see a few folks roll their eyes with a vibe of “Here comes some fluffy nonsense.” To address that ahead of time, I now … Read more

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Cameron Conaway (@cameronconaway) This week’s tip is about receiving feedback with clarity, specifics, and clear next steps. Often, folks see the feedback relationship as a monologue rather than the dialogue it should be. Just as often, the feedback giver and receiver bring baggage (anxiety, defensiveness, etc.) … Read more

An abstract painting shows two women of color sitting at a desk. One turns on a light so the other can see.