Even as a solopreneur there is a chance you will work with contractors and you may grow your business large enough that you will need to hire staff. When that time arises, as the business owner you may be asked to provide feedback to a team member on a project he or she is involved in. As with all communications, the words as well as the tone influence how the feedback is received and digested by the person to whom it’s offered.
How can you provide valuable feedback in such a way that it will be received and taken to heart by the person to whom you’re delivering it? Here are five ways I’ve found that have worked in my organization:
- Provide feedback in a positive way. You obviously want your team member and the project to be a success so make certain the message you deliver provides a positive intent.
- Choose a time for the feedback when the receiver will be receptive to it. Friday at 5 pm or in the midst of a time-crunched task is not the time to offer feedback.
- Begin your feedback with an “I” statement rather than a “you” statement. “I’d like to discuss how the project is moving forward” rather than “Your contribution to the project…” Using “you” can put the receiver on the defensive.
- Make certain your tone and your body language is supportive. Speak softly, don’t stand with your arms folded or your hands on your hips.
- Leave an opening for the receiver to respond and listen thoughtfully to his/her concerns.
Successful outcomes in all conversations can be had with a little planning and forethought.