Written by M. Tamra Chandler and Laura Dowling Grealish, “Feedback (and Other Dirty Words)” is a comprehensive guide to navigating the complex world of workplace feedback. The book is divided into five chapters, each focusing on a different aspect of feedback, from giving and receiving feedback to managing feedback effectively. In this book summary, we will explore each chapter in detail, providing a brief overview of the key ideas and takeaways.
Chapter 1: The Power of Feedback
The first chapter of “Feedback (and Other Dirty Words)” introduces the concept of feedback as a powerful tool for personal and professional growth. The authors argue that feedback can be a double-edged sword, capable of both boosting performance and causing harm. They provide a framework for understanding the different types of feedback, including positive and negative feedback, as well as constructive and destructive feedback. The chapter also includes a useful tool for evaluating the quality of feedback, including whether it is specific, actionable, and timely.
Chapter 2: The Art of Giving Feedback
In the second chapter, the authors explore the art of giving feedback. They provide practical advice on how to deliver feedback effectively, including how to choose the right time and place, and how to use language that is clear and concise. The chapter also includes a useful tool for evaluating your own feedback style, including whether you tend to be too positive or too negative. The authors also provide tips for giving feedback to different types of people, including introverts and extroverts.
Chapter 3: The Art of Receiving Feedback
The third chapter focuses on the art of receiving feedback. The authors provide practical advice on how to receive feedback effectively, including how to listen actively, ask clarifying questions, and respond with grace and humility. The chapter also includes a useful tool for evaluating your own feedback style, including whether you tend to be defensive or dismissive. The authors also provide tips for receiving feedback from different types of people, including managers and colleagues.
Chapter 4: Managing Feedback Effectively
In the fourth chapter, the authors explore the art of managing feedback effectively. They provide practical advice on how to manage feedback effectively, including how to prioritize feedback, follow up on feedback, and use feedback to drive performance. The chapter also includes a useful tool for evaluating your own feedback management style, including whether you tend to ignore feedback or overreact to it. The authors also provide tips for managing feedback from different types of sources, including customers and suppliers.
Chapter 5: The Future of Feedback
The final chapter of “Feedback (and Other Dirty Words)” looks towards the future of feedback. The authors argue that feedback is evolving from a one-way process to a two-way process, with employees providing feedback to managers as well as vice versa. They also discuss the role of technology in facilitating feedback, including online surveys and social media. The chapter concludes with a call to action for organizations to embrace feedback as a core value, and to use it to drive performance and innovation.
Conclusion
“Feedback (and Other Dirty Words)” is a must-read for anyone who wants to improve their feedback skills. The authors provide practical advice on how to give and receive feedback effectively, as well as how to manage feedback effectively. The book is also a valuable resource for managers who want to create a feedback-rich culture in their organizations. Overall, “Feedback (and Other Dirty Words)” is a thought-provoking and insightful book that will help readers navigate the complex world of workplace feedback.
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