Effective feedback has an expiration date.
Timeliness is a critical factor in the effectiveness of feedback. Providing feedback promptly allows team members to reflect on recent actions and make immediate adjustments if necessary. Delayed feedback loses its relevance and may not have the desired impact on performance improvement. Moreover, feedback should not be reserved for formal evaluations but should be integrated into regular interactions and discussions. Frequent feedback establishes a continuous improvement mindset within the team, where learning and development are ongoing processes rather than occasional events. By making feedback a consistent practice, managers foster a culture of responsiveness and agility, enabling their teams to adapt and excel in dynamic environments.
Actionable Advice: Schedule brief daily or weekly check-ins with team members to provide timely feedback. These check-ins should focus on both recognizing achievements and discussing areas for improvement.
Learn more about effective feedback here.