How to avoid the pitfalls of positive feedback

Praise should motivate your employees, but in some cases it does just the opposite. Here’s how to make sure positive feedback actually works:

1. Don’t cushion the blow. Don’t routinely say something “nice” before giving criticism. Doing so conditions people to hear positive feedback as a hollow preamble to your real message. Lead instead with your investment in the relationship and reasons for having the conversation.
    
2. Praise effort, not personal attributes. Intelligence, talent, or abilities are mostly innate and cannot be actively replicated. Instead, compliment effort and explain exactly what actions prompted your approval. If you’re specific, you’ll reinforce the desired behaviour.

The above leadership tip...
was sent in response to a question from a participant on our 10/10 leadership development and mentoring programme. Whether you're a first time manager or an experienced leader, straightforward, practical advice on best practice is hard to find. Until now. To find out how you, your team or your organisation can benefit, please join us on our next complimentary webinar or contact us.