Question

Feedback is one of the most important elements contributing to the growth and development of an employee. Briefly explain the methods by which feedback can be elicited, analysed and interpreted (20-30 words each).

ACTION METHODS

1. Eliciting feedback

2. Analysing feedback

3. Interpreting feedback

Answer 1

INTRODUCTION:

Employee feedback is the core of personal and professional growth of an employee.Feedback can help an employee get better at what they do.

Getting employees to give honest feedback can be like pulling teeth. Because no one wants to upset their boss with complaints, criticism or suggestions. But just like employees, employers need to hear the good, the bad and the ugly.

While positive feedback encourages people to continue doing what they do well, it’s the constructive feedback that helps people and the organization grow. Negative feedback helps the employers understand their flaws and correct them, so as to provide the best working atmosphere for the employees.

METHODS TO ELICIT FEEDBACK FROM EMPLOYEES:

Eliciting honest, constructive feedback from employees can be difficult, but not impossible.

1. Suggestion box.

Suggestion box encourages employees to give their feedback because there’s no fear of retribution. Suggestion boxes keep ideas and suggestions hidden, rather than empowering employees to voice their opinions.

1. Asking insightful questions

The key to bringing out truly honest feedback from employees is to take the time to meet with them in an informal, one-on-one setting.

Knowing what to ask employees during individual meetings, is crucial to drawing out honest, actionable feedback. Asking questions such as these can help employers gain better insight.

• Example: How can I help you be more successful?

3. Assign feedback coaches.

These coaches are well-versed in handling employee feedback and, in taking some of the fear out of them during the review process. Designating a select few to handle employee grievances could be the key to eliciting honest, constructive feedback on everything from management issues to business solutions.

4. Follow up with employees.

ElicitIing employee feedback is irrelevant if the employers don’t follow up with employees. Even if an idea or suggestion remains just that, follow up with employees and let them know that their feedback is always appreciated and encouraged.

METHODS TO ANALYZE EMPLOYEES FEEDBACK

1. Analyse all feedback

It is vital that you actually analyse all the feedback you get .While some feedback may give fairly standard or unremarkable details, some may contain information that could potentially be a major breakthrough for the organisation.

2. Categorize ( and sub-categorize) feedback

3. Use negative and positive feedback

In both cases, the organisation will improve and thrive by reacting positively to feedback.

4. Look at root causes for the response.

6. Look for trends

7. Don’t compare unrelated data

8.Consolidate results and determine a plan of action

9. Alert the right teams and individuals within your organization

10. Use automated tools to reduce your workload when obtaining feedback.

METHODS TO INTERPRET EMPLOYEES FEEDBACK:

These tips should be followed to interpret the feedback results, both qualifying and quantifying.

• Checking what is the percentage of employees who completed the feedback.
• Checking if the results are statistically meaningful
• Checking the difference between overall benchmarked and average scores as Benchmarked scores will give you the best indication of how well your organization is doing.
• Studying the standard deviations and frequency distributions and see the relative scores to analyse the employee’s engagement with organization, engagement with manager, strategic alignment, and competency.