Effective feedback is a core element of teaching, of course. It is equally important in the working environment.
Wellness Checks
I started doing monthly “Wellness Checks” with my students, and the results were overwhelmingly positive. I asked how they were feeling personally and academically; what was causing them to feel that way; and if there was anything they wanted to share with me. I initially feared I would need to call CPS multiple times or I would be spending hours reviewing and responding to them. What I actually found was another dimension to my relationships with each of them. The Wellness Checks provided an excellent temperature monitoring tool. Students who rarely spoke in class, wrote paragraphs in response to my personal queries. I took the time to respond to their answers, but not as much time as I thought it’d take. I asked questions of them and handed back the Wellness Checks. Nearly every student reported feeling seen, heard, and understood by me in a way they hadn’t in years past. I varied the questions and style of the Wellness Checks so it didn’t become formulaic.
Though this practice was done with teenagers, I believe it would be equally effective for adult employees. Often, I have felt that my only interactions with my supervisor were for evaluation purposes or when one of us needed to address a concern. Having her check in with me on a personal level and respond back to me would have made a world of difference during a tough week. Formalizing those check ins would ensure everyone is heard, not just the ones displaying visible signs of stress.
Praise
When I first started teaching, I was inconsistent with my praise for good behavior, ideas, and work. It felt silly to verbally reward a student for doing something I thought was easy, like taking out a pencil. As I learned more about my students, I realized how vital positive reinforcement was. Not only did it improve their performance, it improved their morale and general well-being.
Keep feedback.
Blossom Advising 