Assessment and feedback

Although you may see yourself in the receiving position, giving feedback is an important professional skill, a tool we all use in different situations. Giving good feedback can make you a better colleague, friend, or team member. 

Remember, there is a lot to gain from exposing yourself to the ways other people approach tasks and the perspectives they bring to the table. So make yourself available for some peer feedback when you can 😊  

When might you need to give feedback to others? 

• Peer support groups 
• Assessed groupwork 
• Team exercises 
• Supporting friends and colleagues 
• Building networks (e.g. in conferences, fairs, meetings) 

What constitutes constructive feedback? 

Feedback should be well meant, having in mind how to help and not how to criticise! Some pointers below worth bearing in mind when giving feedback to others, for maximum effect: 

• Point out both positives and negatives 
• Provide clear explanations for each point 
• Make suggestions on solutions / improvements (feedforward) 
• Include words of encouragement  
• Be open to understand other perspectives and open a dialogue