Toolkit: Give Better Feedback | from Fixable

In this episode of Fixable, hosts Anne Morris and Frances Frey dive deep into the art and science of effective feedback, challenging common myths and offering a practical, research-backed framework for both giving and receiving feedback. They distinguish between evaluative feedback—like grades or performance reviews—and improvement-oriented feedback, which is far more impactful for personal and professional growth. The core message centers on a five-to-one ratio: for every piece of constructive advice, leaders should deliver at least five sincere, specific, and public positive reinforcements. This foundation builds trust and makes people more receptive to growth-oriented feedback. The hosts emphasize that constructive feedback should be private, specific, and delivered at the right emotional moment—not in the heat of the moment. They also provide strategies for receiving clumsy feedback, advocating for a pause, gratitude, and follow-up reflection to extract value without reacting defensively. The episode underscores that feedback is not about judgment but about development, and when done well, it transforms teams and relationships. Key takeaways include: (1) Prioritize positive reinforcement with specificity and public recognition to encourage repeat behavior; (2) Use a five-to-one ratio of praise to critique to build psychological safety; (3) Deliver constructive feedback privately, with care and timing, not in the moment; (4) When receiving feedback, say 'thank you' and schedule a follow-up to process it thoughtfully; (5) Treat feedback as a developmental journey, not a performance evaluation; (6) Be an intelligent consumer of feedback—filter signal from noise; (7) Avoid the feedback sandwich; (8) Remember that effective feedback is not about being right, but about creating change. The overall tone is empowering, practical, and deeply human, with a strong emphasis on empathy, intentionality, and long-term growth.