Giving SMART feedback

Tips for giving SMART feedback

• Be clear: Make sure you are clear in the feedback you provide.

• Be specific: Focus on what you have noticed that people have done well, or what they could improve on. If improvement is required, make sure you let them know that it is linked to a specific issue not their general performance.

• Be real and realistic: Your authenticity will ensure that feedback is well received, so avoid giving feedback unless you really believe it is necessary or deserved. Make sure you give concrete and constructive feedback that is realistic and will help people achieve a goal.

• Timely: Feedback should be provided at the right time. If you wait too long, it may seem random or ill considered. Moreover, praising every small action can appear overly ingratiating and superficial.