Why tough feedback is tough love

Have you ever gotten a feedback sandwich? 

That’s when someone gives you constructive feedback, but smooshed between two compliments. This tactic sets you up to feel good — but it’s not always the most effective way to give feedback. 

For instance: “Howard, I notice you’ve really been trying hard lately. The results haven’t quite shown your effort yet. But I have no doubt you’ll get there, with all the hard work you’re putting in.”

Huh?

It’s confusing for the recipient, who isn’t sure what piece of the feedback to act on. And it doesn’t create a sense of urgency or a direction.

Instead of sandwiching your feedback, leadership experts advise advice-givers to offer specific examples of problematic behavior, explain the impact it has on the team or project, and give them concrete steps they can act on to make a change.

Professionals expect feedback, and the more direct and clear the feedback, the easier it is to act on it. 

Have you ever gotten a feedback sandwich? That’s when someone gives you criticism smooshed between 2 compliments. It sets you up to feel good — but it’s not always the most effective way to give feedback. Professionals expect direct and clear feedback they can act on.