Feedback conventions vary sharply between cultures. What reads as direct and helpful in one place reads as harsh in another, and English-speaking workplaces tend toward indirect.
Giving positive feedback
Be specific. "Good job" is pleasant and forgettable.
- "The way you handled that client call was excellent — you stayed calm when they escalated."
- "Your section of the deck was the clearest part."
- "That was a real improvement on last month."
Giving critical feedback
Describe the behaviour and its effect, then what you want instead. Avoid describing the person.
- "When the report comes in late, the finance team can't close the month. Could we aim for Wednesday going forward?"
- "I noticed the client didn't get a reply for three days. What happened there?"
That second one is a question, not an accusation — it leaves room for a reason you do not know about.
Useful softeners
- "One thing I'd suggest…"
- "It might be worth…"
- "Have you considered…"
- "I wonder if…"
Reading indirect feedback
British English in particular understates criticism. It helps to know the translation:
- "That's an interesting approach" — often means they disagree
- "I'd maybe just tweak one or two things" — can mean substantial changes
- "It's not bad" — genuine, mild approval
- "With respect…" — disagreement is coming
Receiving feedback
- "Thanks, that's useful."
- "Could you give me an example?"
- "I hadn't seen it that way — let me think about it."
Asking for an example is the single most useful response. It turns vague criticism into something you can act on.
