Giving Feedback

Rather than repeating verbatim what the other person just said, put the ideas into your own words. This effort shows that you have truly heard and digested his concerns.

- If I don’t get a larger office, I’m quitting.
( You feel a larger office is so important that you might quit if you don’t get one. )

- My mother is dying and I’m sad.
( I’m sorry to hear that. You must be under a lot of stress. )

- I’m really upset about not getting a higher evaluation this year.
( You’re disappointed in the results of you annual appraisal )


Affirm the Speakers’ Feelings

• Well, you shouldn’t feel that way.• That feeling is stupid.”
• I can understand why you’d be upset
• What a dreadful experience!
• It’s natural to feel angry sometimes
• If I were you, I’ll be angry too