“If criticism is needed, do it tactfully. Don’t use a sledgehammer when a fly swatter will do the job.”
-Ann Landers, Advice Columnist
Providing constructive feedback is the cornerstone of a healthy and productive coaching relationship. Criticism, or the more common term, “constructive criticism” can often have less than desirable and even destructive consequences.
A critical determinant to providing effective and optimal feedback is a trusting relationship in which both parties are focused and committed to the same objective.
EXERCISE:
How would a more tactful coaching approach be used in your world, to provide the valuable feedback you desire in supporting those around you toward enhanced performance and productivity?