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FEBRUARY 2006

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	Feedback –The Fuel for Continuous Improvement QUOTE “To exist is to change, to change is to mature, to mature is to go on creating oneself endlessly.” Henri L. Bergson		Feedback is an essential tool that, when well timed and appropriately delivered, can significantly impact individual performance as well as organizational performance. Essentially, feedback is the fuel that can bring about continuous improvement on both the individual and organizational levels. In this newsletter we will examine the impact of feedback on the individual. Watch for our newsletter next month where we examine how feedback can be used for organizational improvement. Feedback and the Individual: Feedback on the individual level is what can turn a low performer into a high performer. It can also keep a high performer motivated to continue shining and achieve breakthrough results. Effective feedback provides guidance, identifies areas of improvement, and motivates. Unfortunately, feedback is underutilized in many organizations. Performance happens continuously, and feedback should be offered consistently as well. The key is to make feedback a regular part of the performance improvement cycle, which includes day-to-day interactions as well as formal reviews. However, providing feedback can often be an agonizing experience. As employees it is hard to hear about the areas we need to improve upon, and as managers we often feel uncomfortable describing them. As a result, feedback is often delayed, provided hastily, or not provided at all. When we fully understand the power of feedback and how to give valuable feedback, the task of doing so seems less daunting. The next time you find yourself in the role of providing feedback, remember these principles for providing effective feedback: Make sure the timing and setting are right, and minimize distractions. Ask for permission to give someone feedback. Before delivering feedback question to better understand others’ opinions and frames of reference. Gain insights by observing body language, tone of voice, and words. Provide specific feedback based on observed behaviors and their implications. Look for opportunities to give feedback that motivates. Build feedback opportunities into regular, routine interactions. At Advance Consulting we have helped many organizations improve their employees’ ability to provide effective feedback. If you would like to learn more about our services, please contact us at 831-372-9444 or email us at advanceinfo@advanceconsulting.com.
			FIND OUT MORE Advance Consulting is a professional development company that provides state-of-the-art consulting services, workshops, seminars, and speaking engagements throughout the U.S. and internationally. Find out more at www.advanceconsulting.com, send us an email at advanceinfo@advanceconsulting.com, or call us at (831) 372-9444 for more information.