According to Stéphane, feedback is not simply a comment or an opinion, but rather a “conversation that feeds back“. For a comment to be considered feedback, two conditions must be met: it must be both nourishing and constructive. Thus, feedback, whether positive or corrective, must encourage action, without hurting or demotivating.
The keys to effective feedback
Stéphane offers several tips for mastering the art of feedback:
- Clearly defining feedback: Not everything is feedback. The word itself comes from “feed” and “back”. Feedback is a nurturing comment that prompts action.
- Avoiding common mistakes: Among the most common mistakes Stéphane makes is giving orders disguised as feedback. Feedback should remain free and encourage the recipient to think and act for themselves. He also stresses the importance of going beyond corrective feedback to verbalize what has been done well.
- Start with positive feedback : Stéphane reminds us how crucial it is to value successes and good deeds. Positive feedback reinforces desired behaviors and creates an environment conducive tocontinuous improvement.
- Asking for feedback before giving it: Before becoming a feedback expert, Stéphane recommends learning to ask for feedback. This helps create a culture of open, caring exchange, where everyone feels free to share their feelings.
- Practice on the little things:Don’t wait for a major event to give feedback. Identify the small everyday actions that deserve recognition and start expressing your appreciation.
The effects of feedback on performance
Stéphane shares an anecdote about an experiment conducted with bowling teams: half the teams received feedback on what they were doing wrong, while the other half received feedback on what they were doing right.
The result was clear: the teams that received positive feedback improved their performance more.
This demonstrates theimpact of positive feedback on motivation and commitment.
Best practices for a successful feedback culture
Stéphane Moriou encourages companies to adopt a feedback culture. He recommends :
- Training teams: Developing a feedback culture takes time and training. Stéphane suggestslearning the basics of feedback and practicing regularly.
- Start with a small group: The feedback culture doesn’t happen overnight. Start by forming a team, a project or a division, and let this dynamic spread gradually.
- Encourage peer-to-peer feedback: Feedback should not only come from the manager, but also from colleagues. It should become a natural and regular practice among team members.
Mature feedback
For Stéphane, the ability to receive feedback, even when delivered by someone less experienced or imperfect, is the ultimate sign of maturity in the art of feedback.
He invites everyone to work on this skill to achieve true mastery of constructive exchange.
In a nutshell…
Through his advice and expertise, Stéphane Moriou shows us that feedback is much more than a management tool: it’s a language, an art, and a way of interacting deeply with others.
To establish a feedback culture, you need to recognize successes, encourage communication, and work on your own ability to receive feedback. Don’t miss the next Masterclass!
