The Feedback Sandwich

Created by:

Herman Otten
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The feedback sandwich is a popular method for giving feedback in a balanced way.
It involves three parts: saying something positive, giving constructive criticism, and ending with something positive again. This method helps to provide feedback that is both encouraging and helpful for improvement.

In the feedback sandwich, you start by giving positive feedback to make the person feel good and appreciated. Then, you provide constructive feedback. Finally, you end with more positive feedback to keep them motivated.

The feedback sandwich technique aims to balance criticism with support and encouragement, making it easier to accept. It can be particularly useful when providing feedback in situations where the recipient might be sensitive or defensive.

However, it’s important to note that the feedback sandwich has received some criticism over the years. Some argue that it can come across as insincere or dilute the impact of the constructive feedback. Others suggest that a more direct and open approach to providing feedback may be more effective, as long as it is delivered with empathy and respect.

Ultimately, the choice of feedback delivery technique depends on the situation, the individuals involved, and the specific context in which the feedback is being given.

You can play this team building game with as many people you like. During the feedback sandwich the participants will get to know what other people think are their positive traits, and the will also learn about the traits that others think they can improve upon.

Do you like the feedback sandwich exercise? Let’s give these variations a try:

1. Tell the group to switch partners. This way everyone gets feedback from multiple people.

2. After the exercise you can ask the participants if they felt less offended by the critical feedback, because it was sandwiched between the two positive ones.