Do we really get that little positive feedback in our lives?

Sean Reddell - www.blazeunlimited.com.au Industry Expert

This was the question I was asking myself when I ran an exercise in a workshop yesterday.  In this exercise I asked participants to pair up and provide each other with 4-5 pieces of positive feedback.  Sounds simple right?

Well, let me tell you, the response was very interesting.

Now I know that positive feedback, a pat on the back, a public thank you, or a little card for a job well done does miracles for validating and motivating an employee.  I know this because it's my business to know this.  What amazes me is how few other people know this.  Or if they do know it, they don't do anything about it.  Crazy!  It costs nothing and has a genuine and positive impact on an employees committment and motivation.

Anyway, back to the workshop.  What I observed was very interesting.  Many, many people were initially uncomfortable with hearing positive feedback.  When asked everyone said that it felt 'nice'.  And yet, they were uncomfortable.  Two things popped into my head.  The first was that the Australian tall poppy syndrome was rearing it's head again - in that Australians don't  "talk other people up because it's not the done thing to do mate".  

The second was whether their level of discomfort was a symptom of the infrequent positive feedback they've recieved.  It's alien, unusal and therefore a little uncomfortable... even if it is pleasant.

Either way, my resolve was the same.  I urged this group to "pay it forward" don't wait till you need to disguise some constructive criticism with positive (but perhaps not very genuine) feedback.  Go out there and tell those you appreciate, love or work with what they mean to you.  Something about them that's special, valuable, admirable or inspirational.

I'm now actively promoting the power of positive feedback in the organisations I work with.  I'd love to hear your experiences. 

Go forth and spread the word you wonderful people.  :-)

 Sean

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