It can be uncomfortable to give difficult feedback to your employees, but it is necessary to do so for your company’s success and your employees’ growth.
Harvard Business Review offers the following tips to help navigate the apprehension that may accompany these difficult conversations so you can focus on your message.
- Instead of assuming critical feedback makes you a mean manager, focus on the benefits of clear communication. Your honest input can help your employee address any issues and grow in new ways.
- Before delivering your feedback, consider the worst, best and most likely outcomes, and determine your plan for each. Plan your opening remarks; you will want to use “I” statements, be specific and employ a respectful tone.
- Make feedback a regular habit rather than an occasional “big” conversation. When you practice giving feedback in everyday situations, you will get better at it.
