Notice the next step is OFFER, rather than give or provide. Keeping with the spirit of PCS we only want to share our feedback if our co-worker is ready to receive it and we have his or her permission to do so. Therefore, it’s good to start this step by asking something like, “Would you mind if I shared a few things I noticed with you?”
Once we have permission, here are a few guidelines to keep in mind while offering your feedback:
• Be clear, brief, and specific – Feedback is easier to understand and use when given in little packages
• Focus on the positives – Remember our goal is to build on one’s strengths. Try to elicit your co- worker’s own ideas for improvement before making suggestions, and only after affirming the good
• Use your own PCS skills – Listen actively and reflectively while encouraging change talk
• Avoid imperative language like “you should... , you need to..., you have to... “
• Avoid feedback overload – Select a couple of key areas to provide feedback on. Change comes with little steps.