Published on 11 October 2022

Our 9 top tips for giving feedback and acknowledgement

Do you want to understand how to build a positive relationship with your colleagues, but don’t quite know where to start?

Read our 9 tips to help you master the art of giving feedback and acknowledging the work of your colleagues.

Like all things, practice makes perfect when it comes to providing feedback.

How do I give positive feedback?

Look for opportunities  

Spend time looking for what’s positive about what your colleagues are doing. If someone exceeds your expectations, even in a small way, let them know 

 
Provide timely feedback Providing feedback immediately when you notice something ensures that others don’t feel like their work is going unrecognised. 

 
Be specific Avoid vague praises and provide detail so that colleagues have a better chance to learn and grow from the feedback.

 
Link it to the bigger picture If you can link the feedback to the achievement of the team’s goals, it can help others see that they’re making a positive contribution.

 

Why?   It helps people to feel recognised and understand that they’re doing a good job. It allows people to thrive and generates a sense of accomplishment and motivation. 

How can I best acknowledge my colleagues?

 

Say thank you Let colleagues know you appreciate something they’ve done or said. It can be for being kind, helpful or supportive, and be done privately, or in front of others.

 
Show you’re listening Be present, reflect upon what has been said and ask questions to demonstrate you are engaged in the conversation.

 
Show you recognise how they feel Acknowledge what’s been said, and empathise (where appropriate) with their feelings.

 
Let them know you understand their position You don’t have to agree, but vocalising that you understand where they are coming from.

 
When appropriate, provide a compliment Acknowledge great achievements or efforts in the workplace.

Why?   It helps people to feel noticed and worthwhile, and it can just make their day! But it’s not just a nice thing to do – it can encourage staff to continue to make an effort, feel more satisfied at work, and build positive relationships.