Feedback with Sandwich method

Term coined by Marshall Goldsmith, it is a very popular process consisting of three steps to help deliver negative feedback. People giving feedback place a constructive or negative comment between two positive ones. It is called the sandwich method because these two positive comments come before and after the criticism.

These are the steps typically followed in this type of feedback:

State what is being done well. Positive statement.
Communicate what should be improved. Constructive criticism.
Highlight the positive aspects of overall performance. Appreciation.

The ability to give feedback is a fundamental leadership skill, but it is not only about giving feedback, it is about delivering it in a way that is not perceived as a judgment or a personal attack.

Why is the sandwich method used?

The sandwich method emerged as a way to reduce the emotional impact of corrective feedback, making it easier for the person to receive it with an open and receptive attitude.

By framing criticism between two positive messages:

A context of trust is created
Resistance to change is reduced
The professional relationship is protected

In environments where feedback is not yet normalized, this method acts as a gateway to more constructive conversations.

Applying the sandwich method can provide:

Greater receptiveness to feedback
Reduction of tension or conflict
Increased motivation
Improved communication between manager and employee

Additionally, it helps balance recognition with improvement, avoiding overly negative conversations.

https://www.gestion.org/que-es-el-sandwich-feedback/

We also talk about it in our blog:

Do we know how to give negative feedback?

It's often said that we learn more from our mistakes than from our successes. Nevertheless, discussing our errors with others requires an extra dose of psychology and reflection. These tips can help us approach our mistakes from a constructive perspective.

The influence of positive feedback

Many studies have verified the effectiveness of feedback in aspects such as teaching or sports. Also in the business sphere, both with our customers and with our employees, feedback -especially positive feedback- has a motivating and implicating power that we should not miss out on.

Tips for effective Feedback The difference between giving feedback and giving effective feedback makes all the difference in successful organizations. Taking care of every detail in the feedback will make your team always open to receive and give feedback, and to have a healthy and trusting culture.

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