Providing Feedback

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Feedback

Feedback is a method of giving advice and support to a fellow colleague or peer. It can provide a positive outlook from somebody else’s perspective and, when both given and received well, can help to create a better  piece of work.

Both positive and negative feedback (more commonly known as ‘constructive criticism’) can help to achieve goals and further develop a career. It can also enhance relationships between colleagues and build personal confidence.

Feedback, when given constructively, encourages self-esteem and engages the recipient to further develop their skills. A trial and error feedback method can help to improve personal weaknesses and develop strengths.

The social learning theory of Albert Bandura emphasises the importance of observing and modeling the behaviors, attitudes, and emotional reactions of others. Bandura (1977) states: "Learning would be exceedingly laborious, not to mention hazardous, if people had to rely solely on the effects of their own actions to inform them what to do”. 

It is quite possible to produce a piece of literature that reflects everything that you could possibly know and demonstrates your utmost skill of writing. Consequently, without the input of others and their response to a piece of work, there is no effective way to make it better, as every piece of literature is open to criticism and dispute, irrespective of the content or context.

Positive feedback consists of active listening, deep thought, interest and sincerity. It is important to consider these points when giving feedback to ensure that it is well-received. Positive feedback can make a person feel brilliant about their work, but this is not always most important. The quality of the work is priority and the feedback should be given according to this, in a constructive way, so that the person fully understands the feedback that you are giving.

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Negative feedback should also be given constructively and should not be considered simply as an opportunity to put-down others. It is not a personal assessment, but is meant to help improve a piece of work or a person’s key skills.

If not given constructively, a person’s self-esteem can be lowered, which can lead to a lack of motivation. Thus, a piece of work is produced that is no better than the original.

Bad negative feedback can hinder relationships between colleagues and can often encourage a person to seek advice elsewhere, whereas good feedback will encourage a person to want ...

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