Feedback

We communicate feedback all day, every day. We give and receive feedback though our body language, our tone of voice and with our spoken words. Basically each time we speak or actively listen to another person.

Feedback is a great support for groups in order to build trust and openness, as well as for employees to gain self-awareness and insight. By communicating with the I-message, you can provide constructive feedback and take ownership for your feelings, rather than implying that they are caused by another person.

EXAMPLE

 

Write down the name of the person you are addressing. Complete the following two sentences for that person. Use the principles for effective feedback. Sign it with your name.

 

“To _____: What I appreciate most about you is... What I would like to see more from you is... Signed, _____.”

 

I-Messages is often used with the intent to be assertive without putting the listener on the defensive. It’s a great tool for constructive criticism and a way to take ownership for one's feelings rather than implying that they are caused by another person. An example would be; “I need to have a quiet area to be able to work” rather than “You are too loud”.

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