Choosing Words When Giving Feedback

Words are powerful. The words you choose when giving feedback can have positive or negative impacts. They may either inspire and influence change or undo and pause progress, even resulting in resistance. Remember, your words possess the ability to shape outcomes and empower others. Embrace the responsibility of using them thoughtfully, as you hold the key to unlocking potential and fostering a culture of growth and success.

When giving feedback to team members, students, organisations, and managers (even family and friends), consider the purpose, objective, and tone when delivering your words.

Are you setting out to demean or inspire?

Is your attitude hostile or mild?

Will your words degrade or uplift an individual?

Is your tone angry or neutral?

Some words to use when giving effective feedback:

• Authentic
• Positive
• Ideal
• Impressive
• Interesting
• Progress
• Review
• Rework
• Continue
• Change
• Influence

A feedback model I’m fond of is EIC, a simple acronym that’s easy to use.

To use the model, share a specific and clear EXAMPLE, just one, of what you want to discuss. “I’d like to focus on….”

Explain the IMPACT of that example “When you do….. this has an impact on…. in this way….”

Share what you would like to see the person CHANGE OR CONTINUE.

“As a suggestion, you may say…… what are your thoughts?”

Make the conversation two-way, and avoid sounding like you’re reading a script. Remember the purpose of giving feedback and be prepared for someone to disagree with you. If this does occur, resist going into fight or fight mode, listen to the other person and try to understand their perspective.

As part of the feedback process for development purposes, be sure to capture all feedback and actions from coaching and performance sessions and follow-up.

Choose your words wisely when giving feedback if you want to see positive change.

The Power of Constructive Feedback in the Workplace

In any work setting, giving feedback is a powerful tool for facilitating growth and progress. The words we choose during feedback can have a significant impact, either inspiring positive change or hindering development. It is important to be mindful of the purpose, tone, and objective when providing feedback. By using constructive language and focusing on specific examples, we can foster an environment of trust and openness. Incorporating a feedback model, such as the EIC (Example, Impact, Change/Continue) framework, provides structure and clarity. Remember, constructive feedback should aim to guide and help individuals grow, creating a supportive and growth-oriented work culture.