As we near year-end, many people are gearing up for annual reviews—a process that, while often dreaded, should be met with a positive outlook. A well-conducted review lays the groundwork for a productive year ahead, so let’s dive into three critical elements of feedback: giving, receiving, and soliciting.
For Those Receiving Feedback
Approaching your review with an open mind and a readiness to assume positive intent is crucial. This is easier said than done, but remember that feedback is professional, not personal. Recognize that no one is flawless and that everyone has opportunities to improve. Feedback is a valuable tool for growth, so try to welcome it as a way to strengthen your skills and contributions.
For Those Giving Feedback
When providing feedback, it’s essential to consider the entire review period. If your review covers a full year, be sure to assess what occurred in Q1, Q2, and Q3, not just recent events. It’s common to focus on the most recent history, but doing so risks overlooking a team member’s earlier accomplishments. If someone made a mistake last week, it’s valid to address it; however, don’t let it overshadow the positive contributions they made earlier. A comprehensive approach will not only be fairer but will likely be received more constructively.
Leaders: Solicit Feedback from Your Team
Finally, one of the most impactful things a leader can do is solicit feedback from their team. Make the review period a two-way conversation. Rather than surprising your team members with a request for feedback on the spot, ask them to come prepared with three things they think you are doing well and three areas where they believe there’s room for improvement. This specific request signals that you’re genuinely open to insights and value constructive feedback over a generic “everything’s fine” response.
A thorough review process—one that fully considers the year, opens doors for growth, and invites genuine input—sets the stage for a more successful year to come. Embrace the opportunity to refine, improve and align with your team.