Giving the Gift of Feedback

When I ask people to describe the best boss or colleague they ever had, they never say it was the boss who was easiest, or the colleague who only praised them. They inevitably talk about the person who challenged and developed them by giving honest, helpful feedback.

Nor do those answering this question describe a mean, egotistical person who puts people down and goes on capricious tirades. They talk about a friend who can be counted on to help people grow.

Great feedback is a human gift of inestimable value. As you think about gift-giving, never underestimate the enduring value of the feedback that only you can provide from your unique perspective and experience.

When you consider making your life easier by NOT saying something that could help someone in a big way, think again and extend your gift.