Feedback is often mentioned, either as part of the performance appraisal process or as a stand-alone means of assisting your staff develop. But it can be an important source of information and understanding of yourself as an effective leader. It is certainly an essential tool for the effective leader.
Feedback is a way of helping another person change their behaviour. Feedback helps the individual to keep their performance on targetĀ in order to achieve certain standards and goals. It is a developmental process for the individual who wants to learn how well their performance matches expectations.
For performance to improve, three types of information must be conveyed:
Clearly if you expect a member of staff to perform to a certain standard, then the standard needs to be explained first before giving the task! This is obvious, but how often does it happen?
Focus on performance, not on personality
Give feedback when the behaviour occurs
Summarise and check
It just as important that you as the leader receive feedback from your staff as it is that you give feedback to them. You also need to know where your behaviour could change so be prepared to ask for constructive feedback from staff and do not be defensive when you receive it. Listen attentively to what is being said and be prepared to change if necessary.
In other words, do not expect your staff to do something you are not prepared to do yourself!
This Leadership training course is designed to help all managers and leaders develop the essential skills to influence and motivate your staff to achieve exceptional performance.
This team leadership training course covers the key skills necessary for team members to become team leaders. It is ideal for recently promoted Team Leaders or those who have not had formal training.