Why it is hard to give upward feedback
There are many factors at play that can make it difficult to give upward feedback. Let’s review a few of the most powerful ones.
- You may not know how they will react or if they will misinterpret the feedback.
- There are power dynamics at play with a manager who controls promotions and compensation.
- You may lack context in all that they do so you think your feedback will be less valid.
How to give upward feedback
Despite these reasons that it is hard, it is important for us to give the feedback. Use these tips:
- Remember they are human. They likely want to hear high quality feedback that is rooted in their success. This will give you more confidence to enter the conversation.
- Prepare and reflect. Is your feedback high quality, specific, and rooted in the success of them, you or the team?
- Choose the right place to give feedback. Most likely somewhere with some privacy.
- Be direct and clear. Don’t sugar coat it. This will only lead to confusion.
- Be sure to provide time for their response. They may have questions or points of clarification.
- Bring potential solutions. It is great if you can be proactive and think through potential solutions.
Micro-learning video
How Tandem can help with upward feedback
Looking to support your team with feedback in their day to day? Tandem is there with your team in their workflow to support feedback best practices. Get started here!
