HOW TO GIVE EFFECTIVE FEEDBACK

• Ask the associates (or other people to be evaluated) to do a self-assessment as homework in preparation for the feedback session.
  
  
  -- Are they satisfied with their performance?
  -- What do they think are the strengths they demonstrated?
  -- Where do they think they need to improve?
  -- What factors in the firm and outside supported their ability to produce good work and hindered it?
  -- What goals have they set for the year?
  -- Where do they stand on progress toward reaching those goals?
  -- What contributions to the firm beyond client work have they made?
  
  
• Ask the associates to focus their agenda: What one to three questions or issues do they want the feedback meeting to focus on?
  
  
• Prepare by giving serious thought to responses on the key issues raised.
  
  
• At the meeting, ask the associate for background, the context of the concerns.
  
  
• Give candid feedback with the aim of motivating professional development and improvement. Try to speak in a positive tone, starting with the positive points so they will be heard. Be as specific and timely as possible. Avoid personal and emotional remarks and references.
  
  
• Avoid being defensive and/or evasive.
  
  
• Listen effectively. Use active listening skills.
  
  
• Lay out a plan together for continual improvement with milestones and future meetings. Be specific about training, coaching, what the individual wants to achieve.
  
  
• Agree on a date to review again.