Provide Specific, Detailed Examples, Preferably in Writing
To give effective feedback, replace vague phrases with specific, quantified examples presented in writing, especially for detail-oriented personality types like 'Blues'. This increases credibility and clarity.
THE IDEA
Provide Specific, Detailed Examples, Preferably in Writing
It’s not good enough coming in with sweeping phrases like “I think you’re working too slowly; can you please speed up?” That’s way too general. It doesn’t matter if you’re right or not—the phrase “working too slowly” says virtually nothing. Says who? Slowly in relation to what?
What you need to do is point to specific accurate and detailed examples. You need to say things like “The latest project took sixteen and a half hours too long.” Then add up the effects this has had: We can’t charge the customer for those sixteen and a half hours, which means that profitability has now fallen by $4,125 (16.5 × $250 per hour, or whatever you charge).
Erikson recommends this concrete, written approach for people he describes as Blue. Written examples give the recipient something specific to examine and question. Their usefulness depends on accuracy and relevance, not on the medium making a claim more true or a color label determining the response.
Write down the examples and check the figures before the meeting. Another person can help catch errors, and the recipient should have a chance to explain any missing context.
When to use it
Providing performance feedback during quarterly reviews, especially to detail-oriented employees.
Addressing project delays by quantifying the impact on budget and timeline in a written memo.
Communicating customer complaints with specific incidents and financial repercussions to cross-functional teams.
Writing a corrective action plan that includes precise metrics and expected outcomes.
FROM THEORY TO EVERYDAY LIFE
In practice
Ineffective vs effective feedback on project speed
Instead of saying 'You're working too slowly,' provide a concrete example: 'The latest project took sixteen and a half hours too long. This reduced profitability by $4,125.' Such specificity makes the feedback actionable and credible, especially for detail-oriented individuals.
A MOMENT TO REFLECT
Put it to work.
Can you recall a recent instance where you gave vague feedback? How could you rephrase it with specific, quantified details?
How might you adapt your feedback style for different personality types, such as Blues, Yellows, Greens, or Reds?
What steps can you take to ensure your written feedback is accurate and verified before presenting it?
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION
Source texts
- Surrounded By Idiots (Thomas Erikson)