In this episode of the Agile Skills Library podcast, experienced agile coaches Paul Goddard and Geoff Watts explore the art of giving feedback within teams. They discuss why feedback is vital for empowerment and self-management, highlight common pitfalls, and introduce practical models like Non Violent Communication and AID. Sharing personal stories and actionable tips, they emphasise the importance of timing, environment, and tailoring feedback to individuals. Their informal, insightful conversation inspires agile practitioners to embrace feedback as a regular, constructive practice for team growth and stronger collaboration.

Downloadable content available from

https://www.agilify.co.uk/resources/the-agile-skills-library/ep2-giving-feedback-that-transforms-agile-teams/

Timestamps by PodSqueeze

Introduction to the Podcast (00:00:03)

Paul and Geoff introduce themselves, the podcast, and the purpose of sharing agile and leadership techniques.

Why Feedback is Important (00:01:06)

Discussion on the significance of feedback for team empowerment, agency, and self-management.

Cultural and Emotional Barriers to Feedback (00:03:29)

Exploring why feedback is uncomfortable, including cultural differences and personal sensitivities.

Benefits of Overcoming Feedback Fear (00:05:07)

How teams improve after difficult feedback conversations and the positive impact on team dynamics.

Frequency and Timing of Feedback (00:06:06)

The importance of giving feedback regularly to reduce discomfort and improve effectiveness.

Common Feedback Traps (00:06:45)

Overview of pitfalls like the praise sandwich, hearsay, long-winded feedback, and sugarcoating.

Additional Feedback Traps: Labeling and Extremes (00:10:18)

Highlighting the problems with labeling people and using words like "always" and "never."

Structured Feedback Models Introduction (00:11:09)

Transition to introducing structured models for giving effective feedback.

Nonviolent Communication (NVC) Model (00:12:03)

Explanation of the NVC model: observation, feeling, need, and request.

AID Model for Feedback (00:15:25)

Introduction to the AID model: Action, Impact, Desired outcome.

The Perfection Game (00:16:31)

Description of the Perfection Game feedback method, including scoring and improvement suggestions.

General Tips for Giving Feedback (00:18:34)

Practical advice for offering, framing, and personalizing feedback.

Creating a Safe Feedback Environment (00:20:28)

Importance of preparing the recipient and choosing the right timing and setting for feedback.

Adapting Feedback Delivery to the Receiver (00:22:29)

Tailoring feedback methods to the preferences of the person receiving it.

Owning Your Feedback and Overcoming People-Pleasing (00:23:04)

Encouragement to own feedback and address people-pleasing tendencies that hinder honest communication.

Little and Often: Building Feedback Habits (00:25:04)

Advocating for frequent, small feedback moments to normalize the process.

Avoiding Annual Feedback Rituals (00:26:10)

Critique of infrequent, formal feedback sessions and their ineffectiveness.

Episode Wrap-Up and Next Steps (00:26:38)

Preview of the next episode on receiving feedback and invitation for listener feedback.