When giving permitted feedback to anyone, especially employees, students, or children, use descriptive words.
"I noticed that your report had a lot of typos. Perhaps you didn't proofread it carefully."
Judgment words are not helpful. They are vague and don't identify the specific behaviors you want someone to change. Example: "Your essay wasn't very good, Jim. You can do better."
Also: When your feedback is negative, it's helpful to begin sentences with "I."
Examples:
"I sensed you were unprepared for your presentation, Sally." "I had difficulty following your reasoning."
When giving positive feedback, begin your sentences with "you."
Examples: "You're listening to customers very carefully before suggesting appropriate products." "You've made consistent improvement in these areas: You respond promptly to phone and email messages, and you actively participate in our meetings."
One more feedback strategy: Once a person has accepted a work or study assignment, you can ask "How are you are doing on 'X'?" If they give themselves feedback similar to what you would say, you can concur and praise them for their self-awareness.
