Let's Talk

More about the book

A game-changing model for giving impactful feedback that employees truly value. Research shows that 44% of managers dread providing feedback, while 65% of employees wish for more of it. This fear of hurting feelings often leads managers to withhold valuable insights or obsessively rehearse conversations, only to find them not going as planned. However, skillfully delivered critical feedback can significantly enhance performance. Dr. Therese Huston, founding director of the Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning at Seattle University, emphasizes that effective communication begins with listening. Understanding what type of feedback an employee desires—appreciation, coaching, or evaluation—is crucial, as it fosters receptiveness. Huston presents counterintuitive strategies for delivering feedback: articulate your good intentions upfront, as it creates a positive atmosphere; align with the individual rather than the issue, recognizing that problematic behaviors may not be as deeply rooted as assumed; and allow employees to clarify any inaccuracies in feedback, as they value good listeners. This guide transforms the awkwardness of feedback into a natural process, enhancing performance, trust, and mutual understanding in the workplace.