Giving feedback at work can feel daunting, but when it’s done well, it can spark motivation, build confidence, and help everyone grow. In UK workplaces, where we like to keep things friendly and straightforward, a bit of honest feedback delivered the right way goes a long way. Ready to take your feedback skills from awkward to awesome? Let’s dive into some practical, down-to-earth tips for giving performance feedback that really works.
Get the Timing Right
Feedback is most effective when it’s timely. Waiting until the annual review is like telling someone their shoelace was untied a month after they tripped! Instead, aim to give feedback as close to the event as possible. That way, the details are fresh, and your colleague can see the connection between their actions and your comments. If you notice something worth mentioning, jot it down and catch up with the person soon after. This approach helps turn feedback into a regular, helpful part of working together, not something to dread.
Make it a Two-Way Conversation
Feedback isn’t a monologue—it’s a chat. Instead of just delivering your verdict, ask questions and invite the other person to share their thoughts. Try phrases like, “How did you feel that went?” or “What do you think worked well?” This helps people reflect on their own performance and shows you value their perspective. In the UK, we’re known for being polite, but don’t let that stop you from having honest, open exchanges. The goal is to help each other improve, not just tick a box.
Be Clear, Specific and Balanced
Vague feedback is about as useful as a chocolate teapot. Swap “You did a good job” for something specific, like “Your presentation was clear and you answered questions confidently.” The more details you give, the easier it is for someone to repeat their successes or work on areas for improvement. Remember to balance praise and constructive points. If you only highlight what went wrong, people can feel deflated. If you only give praise, opportunities for growth might be missed. Aim for a mix: celebrate wins, then gently share anything that could be better next time.
Focus on Actions, Not Personality
Keep your feedback about what someone did, not who they are. For example, instead of saying, “You’re careless,” try, “There were a few typos in the report this time—let’s double-check together before the next one.” This keeps things positive and practical. When you focus on actions, the person can see a clear way forward. Nobody likes feeling personally criticised, so keep your words friendly, supportive, and focused on improvement.
Use the Power of Questions
Asking the right questions can turn feedback sessions into powerful learning moments. Try open questions like, “What would you do differently next time?” or “Which part did you find most challenging?” This approach encourages people to think for themselves and come up with their own solutions. It also helps them feel more in control and less like they’re being told off. In a UK workplace, where we often appreciate gentle nudges rather than direct orders, questions can work wonders.
Keep it an Ongoing Conversation
Feedback works best when it’s not just a once-a-year event. Make it part of your regular catch-ups or team meetings. This takes the pressure off and helps everyone get used to giving and receiving feedback naturally. It also means you can spot progress and celebrate improvements along the way. The more feedback becomes part of your workplace culture, the less scary it feels for everyone.
Put it Into Practice
The best way to get better at giving feedback is to practise. Start small, perhaps by giving positive feedback to a colleague on a job well done. Notice how they react and what works. As you get more confident, you can tackle trickier conversations, always aiming to be fair, clear, and supportive. Remember, feedback is a skill you can build—just like riding a bike or making a cracking cup of tea!
Ready to Nail Performance Feedback?
Want to boost your confidence and skill in giving feedback at work? Our Performance Feedback Training Course is packed with practical, down-to-earth tips and techniques for UK workplaces. Whether you’re new to management or want to sharpen your approach, you’ll find everything you need to make feedback a positive, productive part of your team’s success. Click here to find out more and book your place!
