...and the programme is relevant feedback!
It's coming up to mid-year review time for many people across the globe, which means only one thing - an influx of feedback requests. I've blogged in an earlier post (Breakfast of Champions) about some elements of giving feedback, but today I feel the need to put some focus on the 'relevance' of the feedback you are giving, and specifically the timeliness.
As you're completing the 20th request for feedback, have a think to yourself as you're dishing out your thoughts
- when is this feedback from?
- is it still relevant* for the colleague?
- have I got some recent (and great quality) examples to bring it to life?
*I ask the second question about relevance on purpose, as I think this is the exception to the rule because if the feedback is 12 months old but still something that you think is holding the other person back then you need to say it.
Out of date comments could mean the person a) can't do a thing about it or b) they've worked on it already (and you're not close enough to know)...so now is the time to keep quiet. It's very flattering to be asked your opinion on how someone is doing and get your input into their development, but do this frustrated questioner a favour - leave your now massaged ego at the door and resist the tempation to type/write/talk about something that happened 18 months ago and hasn't resurfaced since.
There is another side to this, and that is those requesting feedback need to consider who they're asking for input from. Asking people who you've only had a couple of experiences with at best is unlikely to end in quality feedback. When you're making your list about who to ask, think who can add value and insight for you not just people who you've had a one off positive experience with who will give you a boost.
Quality feedback is few and far between, but little by little we can all make in roads together.
Happy weekend x
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