Why is Giving Positive Feedback in the Workplace So Important this Review Season?

Q4 – it’s here. Lots of bustles abound to close the year strong, negotiate holiday festivities, and, for many organizations, do year-end reviews.

In the throes of 24/7 work cycles, it’s tempting to use the year-end process to dump your long laundry list of gripes that have been building up all year and focus on what an employee needs to correct. We are just too busy executing so much so that the benefit of positive feedback is often overlooked.

As a matter of fact, recent trends suggest that collecting all your feedback just for the annual review is less effective than quick hits of ongoing feedback, which can increase employee engagement. Gallup data show that 80% of employees who say they have received meaningful feedback in the past week are fully engaged. 

Regardless of the frequency, positive feedback is often underestimated. If used strategically, it is a powerful tool to enhance employee performance. 

Impact of Positive Feedback on Employees

Oftentimes, when we think of feedback, we associate constructive criticism with corrective action. But that doesn’t always have to be the case. Because workplace culture is more crucial than ever in today’s business environment, one of the most effective ways to foster a positive work environment is by giving positive feedback to employees. While constructive criticism and corrective action have their place, positive feedback is vital to motivating employees, enhancing performance, and building a cohesive team. Here’s why:

It Boosts Morale and Motivation

Positive feedback, in particular, is a crucial element in fostering an efficacious work environment and enhancing employee performance. It plays a significant role in boosting morale, motivation, and overall productivity in the workplace. Understanding the importance of positive feedback can lead to a more engaged and satisfied workforce as well.  The Harvard Business Review cites that, “Only positive feedback can motivate people to continue doing what they’re doing well, and do it with more vigor, determination, and creativity.”

When employees receive recognition for their hard work and accomplishments, it reinforces their value to the organization. A motivated workforce is more likely to go above and beyond in their roles, whereas complacent employees are likelier to do the bare minimum. Positive feedback can reinforce desired behaviors and encourage employees to continue demonstrating high performance.

It Enhances Employee Engagement

Engagement is critical to retaining top talent and driving productivity. Positive feedback not only reinforces value but can help foster a sense of belonging and connection among the team. When individuals know their efforts are recognized, they will be more likely to engage with their work and contribute to a collaborative environment. Engaged employees are committed to their roles, resulting in lower turnover rates and a more stable workforce.

It Encourages a Growth Mindset

Constructive criticism can often focus on areas of improvement, but when employees receive affirmations of their strengths and successes, they may be more likely to take on new challenges and pursue further development. This is an advantageous aid to certain talent acquisition opportunities because you’ll help harbor your motivated employees’ strengths and talents internally. It encourages individuals to strive for continuous improvement and helps sustain a culture of learning and development.

It Improves Performance

Point blank, positive feedback begets higher performing employees. Employees who receive positive feedback regularly are more aware of their strengths and how to leverage them effectively. This not only boosts confidence but also creates a space for individuals to apply their skills more effectively. As a result, overall performance improves, leading to better outcomes for the organization. According to Bulling Towne, the president and CEO of The Bulling Towne Group, “Good feedback helps people understand how they are performing and will help improve their productivity.”

It Facilitates Constructive Communication

Incorporating positive feedback into regular conversations helps to create a balanced feedback culture. When employees know their successes will be acknowledged, they will be more receptive to constructive criticism. This balance makes it easier for managers to address areas for improvement while maintaining a focus on strengths, creating opportunities for open dialogue that encourages growth. 

It’s Not Just Telling Someone, “Good Job.” 

There’s more to positive feedback than just a pat on the back or a “good job” call out in a team meeting. There’s a certain finesse to delivering positive feedback in a way that will create these opportunities for your team. It’s important for managers to know that not every employee receives recognition the same way. Tailor your feedback to each individual. Use a variety of methods. One crucial aspect of this is understanding your employee’s communication style to learn how to best deliver positive feedback. By understanding and leveraging the unique styles of your team, you can formulate positive feedback in a way that is most effective.

What Strategies Can Managers Use to Give Effective Positive Feedback?

Many individuals in a management role, particularly those new to management, find it difficult to articulate meaningful feedback or struggle with authentic delivery. According to Indeed.com, the following tips can help guide the delivery of positive, meaningful feedback. 

• Be Specific: Instead of generic praise, point out specific actions or behaviors that you appreciate. This shows employees that you are paying attention to their work.
• Focus on the Impact: Explain how the employee’s actions have positively impacted the team or the organization. This helps employees understand the value of their contributions.
• Provide Feedback Regularly: Consistent positive feedback reinforces desirable behavior and motivates employees to continue performing at their best.
• Solicit Feedback: Encourage employees to provide feedback on your feedback. This two-way communication fosters a culture of openness and trust.
• Follow Up: Check in with employees after providing feedback to see how they are doing. This shows that you care about their development and well-being.

Another useful guide is supplied by Gallup. Gallup presents the matrix below to further guide you on effective messaging.

Start Creating A Culture of Appreciation

If all this seems like too much to bite off or doesn’t exactly match your natural communication style, start with simple appreciation. One of the most powerful ways to provide positive feedback in the workplace is through appreciation. Showing appreciation for your colleagues’ hard work and contributions can make a huge difference to their motivation and morale. It helps to create a positive work culture where everyone feels valued and recognized for their efforts. Start small and slowly begin to employ some of the following tokens.

• Recognition: Take the time to recognize and acknowledge the hard work and achievements of your coworkers. A simple thank you, or a shoutout during a team meeting can go a long way in boosting morale.
• Encouragement: Encourage your colleagues to continue doing a great job by providing positive feedback and constructive criticism. Let them know that their efforts are appreciated and valued.
• Gratitude: Show your gratitude towards your coworkers by expressing your thanks for their help and support. A little appreciation can go a long way in building strong relationships in the workplace.

Conclusion

From increased employee motivation to fostering a culture of continuous improvement, positive feedback plays a crucial role in creating a meaningful and productive work environment.

By providing effective, positive feedback regularly, employees feel valued and appreciated, leading to higher levels of engagement and retention throughout your team. It is essential for both employees and employers to understand the difference between positive feedback and constructive criticism to foster a culture of growth and development.

Receiving positive feedback is important, as it helps individuals to recognize their strengths and areas in which they can capitalize. By ensuring that positive feedback is genuine and meaningful, organizations can promote a culture of open communication and collaboration.

Net-net: Positive feedback is a powerful tool that can drive employee performance, which is what the year-end review process is really all about. As you approach annual reviews this year-end, focus on your feedback. Keep it honest but constructive. Resist the tendency to overlook the power of positive messages. They are imperative in perpetuating a workplace where employees perform, thrive, and grow. 

Sources:

• How Effective Feedback Fuels Performance (gallup.com)
• Harvard Business Review – The Ideal Praise-to-Criticism Ratio (hbr.org)
• Positive Feedback: Why It’s Important and How To Deliver It (Indeed.com)