As you know, I’m a big fan of immediate, specific, positive feedback. And I’m not alone. There is plenty of research that toots the powerful impact these moments have on performance.
I’m also a fan of immediate, specific, feedback for improvement.
Except when:
- You are too upset to deliver the information constructively;
- You don’t know the whole story;
- You can see that the other person is reacting emotionally to the situation;
- You don’t have time to make it a conversation which may result in you telling vs. talking;
and perhaps the toughest, - You notice the little voice in your head is saying "I knew it” which means you are feeling judgmental, rather than curious.
Feedback is one of the best ways to motivate or de-motivate a team member. For best results, choose your timing and your words carefully.