Singapore
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Feedback is essential for improving work performance and skill development. It tells us how we’re doing, how we can improve, and also acts as a tool for continued learning. Feedback is crucial for every workplace to align goals and develop relationships.
But what if feedback is directed at your boss? Whether it is your boss who asks for feedback, or if you feel it necessary to provide it, giving feedback to a superior can be a daunting and scary task. You could face retaliation or even be putting your job at risk. However, when offered thoughtfully, feedback can be effective in helping your boss and even improve the working relationship between the two of you. This article thus provides some tips for providing feedback that is productive and professional.
While it is important to offer feedback, it is also vital to consider if your input truly needs to be heard. Weigh the costs and benefits of the various comments you have in mind. Understand how each one may impact your boss and if these comments are aimed at helping your boss improve or if they are just criticisms. Ensure that the benefits of your input far outweigh the possible costs it may incur to your boss who hears it. Then, deliver only the feedback you honestly think your boss needs to hear.
The worst thing to do is to catch your boss off guard with surprise feedback or embarrass him/her in front of fellow colleagues with your input. Feedback will be better received and delivered if both you and your boss are prepared for it. Schedule a time with your boss in private to chat, and give an indication of what you are planning to talk about.
In addition, while it may be more convenient to send an email or text message, it is best to talk face-to-face when offering feedback. Body language and tone will help to ensure that the message you intend to send is the one received. Moreover, by being able to read your boss’ mannerisms, you can adjust your tone and make sure the conversation stays purposeful.
Take time to collect your thoughts and write them down – do not depend on your improvisation skills. Write down key areas of concern and provide supporting details to spark a productive discussion. This will help keep your feedback structured and clear, while also making sure that you attend to the different issues without being repetitive. Most importantly, don’t go off script. While it may be tempting, do not pile on unnecessary details or start blurting out every issue that bothers you.
For feedback to be effective, it cannot be ambiguous. Be specific about what exactly you are addressing, provide supporting examples and offer clear suggestions on how your boss can improve. Moreover, instead of merely spouting criticism, direct your feedback to specific situations or actions, not the individual. It will also help to provide a mix of positive and negative input to ensure your feedback is heard in constructively. Finally, remember to be polite and use professional language.
Giving your boss feedback doesn’t have to be a bad thing. In fact, it can sometimes help improve your work processes and be beneficial for your company in the long run. Consider these points if you have comments for your boss, and in any case, do not be hot-headed about approaching your superior.
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