We're exploring the subtle but significant ways feedback bias creeps into our daily interactions and how it impacts your team's growth and performance. We'll provide you with tools to level up your management game.
September 5, 2024
Hey managers! 👋 Ever wondered how the feedback you give shapes your team's success? Feedback is more than just a morale booster or a critique—it’s a powerful tool that can either propel careers forward or hold them back. Our recent report on feedback bias reveals some surprising ways feedback is influencing your team.
Let’s explore the subtle but significant ways feedback bias creeps into our daily interactions and how it impacts your team's growth and performance. Ready to level up your management game? Let’s get into it!
Key Insights from Our 2024 Language Bias in Performance Report
📝Performance Reviews vs. Potential Reviews: The report reveals a significant disparity in how feedback is framed for different employees. Men are more likely to receive feedback related to their performance ("You achieved your sales targets"), while women often receive feedback based on their potential or personality ("You have the potential to lead this team"). This distinction might seem small, but it has a big impact on how employees perceive their abilities and their growth trajectory within the company.
🌟 The Confidence Gap: Our data shows that biased feedback can contribute to a confidence gap between male and female employees. For instance, women are often told to “be more confident” or “take more initiative,” whereas men are frequently praised for their decisiveness and assertiveness. This difference in feedback can inadvertently reinforce gender stereotypes, limiting women’s perceived authority and opportunities for leadership roles.
🤷 Vague vs. Specific Feedback: The report also highlights the prevalence of vague feedback. Statements like “You’re a good team player” or “You need to be more proactive” are often given without clear examples or actionable advice. This kind of feedback is particularly unhelpful as it doesn’t provide a clear path for improvement, disproportionately affecting women and minorities who may not receive the same detailed guidance as their peers.
Biased feedback isn’t just a microaggression—it’s a career killer. It can derail an employee’s confidence, hinder their career growth, and create a toxic work environment. If left unchecked, it perpetuates inequality within your team and can even lead to higher turnover rates. By understanding the biases in feedback, you can help foster a more inclusive and equitable workplace.
Tips for Giving Fair and Effective Feedback
- Be mindful of your language: Avoid gendered or personality-based feedback. Instead of saying “You’re too emotional,” opt for “In team discussions, focusing on data-driven points will strengthen your argument.”
- Base feedback on observable behaviors: Focus on specific actions and results. For example, instead of “You need to be more assertive,” try “In our last meeting, speaking up earlier could help get your points across more effectively.”
- Encourage self-reflection: Ask questions that encourage employees to reflect on their own performance. This not only promotes self-awareness but also empowers them to take ownership of their growth.
Giving effective feedback isn’t just about pointing out what’s wrong or praising what’s right; it’s about being aware of the underlying biases that can shape our perceptions and interactions. The next time you sit down for a one-on-one, remember: your words have power. Use them to uplift, inspire, and drive equitable growth within your team.
For more insights on how to eliminate bias from your feedback practices, check out our full report here. Let’s commit to creating a workplace where everyone has the opportunity to succeed—starting with fair feedback.
If you need help, Textio Lift’s free trial gives you an easy, free way to make sure that the feedback you’re providing is effective and motivating.