Use these tips to help employees feel more comfortable, increasing the chances of receiving valuable, actionable feedback.
In this article:
- Overview
- Intentional Language
- Demonstrate Interest in Feedback
- Practice Patience & Built Trust Over Time
Overview
Feedback is crucial for personal and professional growth. While formal processes like 360 Feedback are common, managers should also actively seek informal feedback from employees to improve.
However, getting honest feedback can be challenging. Employees may hesitate to share their true opinions, fearing they might offend or face repercussions. This often leads to vague or avoided responses.
Use these tips to help employees feel more comfortable, increasing the chances of receiving valuable, actionable feedback.
Intentional Language
Broad, vague questions often lead to weak responses. Refine your questions for better feedback, shift questions from:
Broad to Specific
The more targeted your questions, the more direct answers you'll receive.
- Instead of: How am I doing?
- Ask: How can I improve our team's goal-setting process?
Traits to Behaviors
It's easier to adjust behaviors than personality traits. Employees will also feel more comfortable offering feedback that isn't personal.
- Instead of: Why do team members say I'm not good at recognizing them?
- Ask: What can I change about how I recognize your accomplishments?
Past to Future
The past can't be changed, so focus on what can be improved in the future.
- Instead of: Have I been communicating effectively?
- Ask: How would you like me to share company announcements?
Demonstrate Interest in Feedback
Show employees that their feedback matters beyond meeting HR requirements. Make it clear that you value their input and are committed to improving their work experience.
To demonstrate interest:
- Listen Fully: Avoid being defensive or reacting immediately, absorb their feedback and reflect on it
- Express Gratitude: Thanks employees for their feedback- If they feel appreciated, they'll be more open and honest in the future
- Ask for Specifics: Request clarifying details to fully understand the feedback and identify ways to improve
- Follow Up: Act on their feedback and check in on progress, employees are more likely to provide constructive input when they see real changes
Practice Patience & Build Trust Over Time
While it's natural to want quick results, meaningful feedback takes time. Trust needs to be developed, and thoughtful feedback doesn't happen immediately.
Share examples of helpful feedback you've received to guide employees on what makes feedback effective. Keep the process ongoing and regular, without pressuring employees for immediate responses.