Delivering Constructive Criticism: Give Feedback That Builds Performance

Giving feedback is not always easy. When an employee's actions or performance require attention, the way the conversation is handled can influence whether the experience leads to improvement or creates further problems. Delivering Constructive Criticism provides participants with a practical approach to preparing for and conducting these important conversations. Participants will explore when feedback should occur, including repeated behaviors, breaches of company policy, situations where informal feedback has not worked, and immediately after an occurrence. The course focuses on preparing and planning by gathering facts, practicing tone, creating an action plan, and keeping written records. Participants will also explore choosing an appropriate time and place, creating a safe atmosphere, and conducting the conversation through active listening, body language awareness, understanding checks, collaboration, and self-assessment. Participants will learn to set SMART goals, use specific instructions, manage anger and negative emotions, demonstrate empathy, and avoid attacking, blaming, talking down, or becoming overly emotional. The course concludes with follow-up meetings, support and resources, measuring results, and determining next steps when improvement is not seen.