What Gets in the Way

Most people have a negative connotation of the word “feedback.” This chapter explores the factors and challenges that get in the way of feedback being delivered effectively, thoughtfully processed and accepted, and put to use for improved performance. It structures common pitfalls around the four-part model of all feedback exchanges: the feedback provider; their actual message; attitudes and behaviors of the feedback recipient; and the context in which feedback is provided. After reading this chapter, the reader will have a deeper understanding of why feedback conversations can sometimes be hard for both the giver and the receiver. Solutions will be presented in Chapters 3 – 5 .