Feedback Fundamentals and Evidence-Based Best Practices

I have been in a HR leadership role for some time now and have been through several trainings/books on feedback but this is the first book that I’ve read which holistically explains feedback in a practical manner from so many different angles. By this I mean it focuses on giving feedback, receiving feedback, in process feedback, outcome feedback, your psychological mindset with constructive feedback and features how all of these things tie together. The stories are relatable both at work and at home which makes for an easy read. One of my favorite parts is when the author shares how frequently we get feedback in the process of the day but most of it is neutral or positive. While most people receive this fee a job just fine it’s constructive (or negative as many refer to it) feedback that is a challenge for people. She goes on to explain how challenging it is for both the feedback giver to get enough courage to provide the constructive feedback and then the anxiety a recipient may feel when someone says “I want to give you some hard feedback” and then take that feedback non defensively. She stated if we know how hard it is let’s remember positive intent and all have some grace with each other as we move along the feedback journey.In summary if you’re looking for something personally to help you or something to help a group of employees this book easily works for either usage and I would highly recommend it. Nice work Brodie and team, I know this book will have a positive impact for people and businesses.

Dr. Riordan describes herself as a “feedback zealot.” While I deliver programs and coaching that encourages asking for and giving feedback, I would never have described myself as a “feedback zealot.” However, after reading “Feedback Fundamentals” I have a goal: focus and work on becoming one!Whether being a “feedback zealot” is a goal or just being better equipped to receive and give feedback, this book provides a straightforward approach and more importantly easy to understand and use strategies. Each chapter of this highly readable and easy to understand book is research based and provides the needed steps to give feedback, ask for feedback, and use feedback. Whether closing a gap between desired behavioral state and current state or getting even better in various areas, the reader can apply strategies, techniques, and/or ideas presented at the end of each chapter outlined in “Try It.”As soon as I finished reading “Feedback Fundamentals” I asked myself, “Who would benefit from reading this?” I started compiling a list: executive coaches, teachers, mental health professionals, parents and then realized the best answer is anybody and everybody!Ed Nottingham, PhD, PCCConsulting & Clinical PsychologistAuthor, "It's Not as Bad as It Seems: A Thinking Straight Approach to Happiness"

This book is a long-needed coverage of the study and application of feedback. As Dr. Riordan reminds us, feedback is ubiquitous but is difficult to give and receive. This book is a concise (110 pp or so) bridge between science and day-to-day applications for effective feedback to occur and be sustained. Her top 10 list of favorite practices and principles at the end should be used in every class and training session on this topic. She asks for "feedback" on this terrific list, and I offer a reminder that feedback in not a "gift" (as the saying goes) but an investment by the giver that deserves responsible use by the receiver. I plan to use this book for students and clients alike.

Let's be honest, feedback is hard. I picked up this book because I truly want to advance at work, and my superiors seem more adept at giving and receiving feedback. I was concerned this would be a dry book and my gosh it wasn't! Dr. Riordan embeds substantive research and seemingly dull concepts within fun stories, approachable writing, visuals, and a voice of total optimism (and dare I say glee?!). What a powerful little book to have in one's pocket in Corporate America! I've started working on my feedback muscles and suggest you get this book and do the same.

Dr. Riordan's excellent new book on feedback provides several helpful models for feedback givers, receivers, and those looking to build a feedback culture within their organizations. She demystifies what is, for many people, a scary and anxiety-provoking aspect of their work lives. By doing so, she makes giving and receiving feedback much more accessible and increases the likelihood people will use this critical tool in their personal and professional lives. Professionals who have people management responsibility and/or provide advice and feedback to clients for a living will benefit tremendously from Brodie's scholarship and professional experience.