Beyond the Compliment Sandwich: A Better Way to Deliver Feedback

Start by acknowledging a specific strength, move immediately to the core issue, and conclude with a concrete suggestion for improvement. This structure shifts the focus from criticism to professional development. Research from the American Psychological Association supports this approach, noting that most people actually crave honest feedback far more than their managers assume. In a 2022 study involving nearly 2,000 participants, researchers found that those providing feedback consistently underestimated the recipient’s desire for clarity.

To implement this today, spend five minutes drafting your points before initiating the conversation. By replacing vague praise with a clear path forward, you transform a potentially awkward interaction into a constructive coaching session. Focus on the solution rather than the discomfort of the delivery.