Episode Summary
In this episode of Mondays with Mike, Mike Staver addresses the challenge of giving feedback that motivates teams rather than deflating them. He offers practical advice on how leaders can structure their feedback conversations to inspire and energize their teams, particularly when discussing areas that need improvement.
Mike suggests that motivating feedback starts by reiterating the desired outcome, for example, focusing on “flawless execution.” He recommends drawing parallels between areas where the team excels and those needing improvement, encouraging the application of existing strengths to new challenges. When team members are struggling broadly, He advises starting with affirmations of belief in their potential, paired with specific encouragement about what’s possible with greater focus.
Key Takeaways
- Begin feedback by restating the intended outcome or goal.
- Highlight what team members are doing well and encourage applying those strengths to other areas.
- If strengths are lacking, express belief in the team’s potential and frame suggestions around achievable improvements.
- Motivating feedback is rooted in clarity, affirmation, and reinforcing standards.
Notable Quotes
- “The first way is to state again what the outcome is that you’re looking for…in the spirit of flawless execution.”
- “I generally find things that people are doing well and…say, let’s apply that same level of attention to detail over in this area.”
- “If they aren’t doing much well, then you start with an I believe in you statement. I believe with a little bit more focus, we can hit this number, we can hit this outcome, we can hit this thing.”
Mike Staver is the CEO and Founder of The Staver Group, a proven leadership development firm dedicated to improving organizational performance by closing the gap between intentions and execution. To learn more about working with Mike and The Staver Group, email info@mikestaver.com.
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