A Guide to Giving Negative Feedback to Your Boss

stop procrastinating

Ahoy matey! Giving negative feedback to your boss can be a challenging task, but it doesn’t have to be a sea monster. Here be some tips for giving feedback that’s meaningful and constructive.

Give Specific Feedback

First and foremost, be specific … like X marks the spot! Don’t just tell them they need to improve their leadership skills, but show them the treasure map and provide examples of where they can improve. For instance, if they’re interrupting others during meetings like a rowdy parrot, let them know they need to let everyone have a chance to speak their piece.

Give Balanced Feedback

Now, let’s talk about using a “sandwich” approach – but hold the mayo! Start with some positive feedback to soften the sea monster’s blow of criticism. Then, give them the constructive feedback, and end with some positive booty again. This approach can help them see the treasure in the constructive feedback you’re providing.

Focus on Specific Behaviors

When giving negative feedback to your boss, focus on behavior, not personality. No need to be a scallywag and attack their character or or challenge their authority. Instead, focus on specific behaviors or actions that need improvement, like how they’re navigating the ship or delegating tasks.

Offer Solutions to Your Boss

Don’t just tell them what’s wrong, be a good first mate and offer them some practical suggestions for improvement. For example, if they’re not listening to ideas during meetings, suggest they let everyone have their say before sharing their own ideas.

Respectful When Providing Feedback

Lastly, be honest but respectful! Speak the truth, but avoid harsh or judgmental language, and always deliver feedback in a tone of collaboration and support. Remember, feedback is like the wind in your sails – it’s essential to move forward and navigate the stormy seas of leadership.

Giving negative feedback to your boss doesn’t have to feel like you’re walking the plank. With some positivity, specificity, and actionable suggestions, you can navigate the choppy waters of giving upward feedback and help them find the treasure of success. You can also encourage them to do a 360 degree assessment. That’s where we can help. Arrgh!