I'll be the odd man out by saying that I think it's one thing to express praise for something, but there are times when it does more harm than good. I believe that if there are issues with something that people are not aware of, or the quality of work that was performed is poor- it should at least be discussed. IMHO, not doing so implies that flaws or poor workmanship are the norm. It gives more credit to those who create or supply the issue greater credibility than they deserve, and provides them with an argument that their service or product is good because no one has ever said otherwise.
As much fun as it is to appreciate and share in another's experience, I believe that there is a certain level of responsibility to offer constructive feedback.
We often confuse feedback with criticism – probably because much of our experience with it has had more to do with what we’ve done wrong than what we’ve done right or how we could do better. This is unfortunate. Feedback should not be viewed as a personal assault or a list of errors, mistakes, or mishaps.
While the content of the feedback can be negative, its delivery can always be constructive. If it’s not, the feedback will not be accepted or be received as an insult, which can ignite other issues and problems.
Definition of Feedback
The definition of feedback in organizations and business is ongoing, open two-way communication between two or more parties. Typically, feedback is given in annual performance reviews, but the best feedback is timely, honest, and provides useful comments and suggestions that contribute to a positive outcome, a better process or improved behaviors.
When delivered in a positive, constructive way, you can communicate something negative without offending or putting the other person on the defensive. At the same time, you help solve the problem, change behavior and work towards established goals. The degree to which you’re successful at this will indicate how good your interpersonal skills are.
What are the Characteristics of Good Constructive Feedback?
Good constructive feedback is
- given with the goal of improvement
- timely
- honest
- respectful
- clear
- issue-specific
- objective
- supportive
- motivating
- action-oriented
- solution-oriented.
On the Other Hand, What is Destructive Feedback?
Destructive feedback is
- unhelpful
- accusatory
- personal
- judgmental
- subjective
- undermines the self-esteem of the receiver
- leaves the issue unresolved
- the receiver is unsure how to proceed.
Why is it Important to Give?
To improve. The importance of feedback in an organization is crucial to its ongoing development and growth. In the competitive environment that businesses operate constructive feedback is essential for continuous improvement.
When members are discouraged from leaving constructive feedback on posted topics, the forum can't offer its members the opportunity to grow. What happens to a child who is fed candy all day long? Sure, it makes the kid happy- and everyone feels good when they hear a child laugh and watch them smile, but children can't live on candy. People can't live on candy.
Constructive feedback is something that I feel should be supported when it's done in a helpful way.
Regarding just plain old bashing and thread crapping where the only intention is to cause distress, I agree that that's something that should be worked on, maybe... maybe even myself included.