Embrace Feedback

Feedback is a gift. It is an opportunity to understand what your strengths are and areas to develop. The challenge with giving feedback is to make sure that the feedback is constructive, factual and objective. Early in my career, I learned that feedback should be SMART.

S - Specific - target a specific area for improvement or strength

M - Measurable - it is quantifiable or easy to track for progress

A - Achievable - it is aligned with the wider goals or objectives

R - Realistic - it is attainable based on the current resources

T - Time Related - it is clear on the time bound

For best results; feedback should be given in real time so that someone is able to address it in real time. Personally, I think the challenge is usually in the timing. Do we give feedback in real time in a way that considers all of the items listed above? It is an area that I am constantly working on. There is so much power in communication and real time feedback. So next time you are in the position to give feedback ask yourself is it following the SMART method and is it in real time. Keep on growing and have a great day.