From Feedback to Feedforward: A Guide to Leadership Growth

Feedback and feedforward are essential tools for personal and professional growth. While feedback analyzes past actions, feedforward looks to the future, offering actionable suggestions for improvement. Leaders who master these techniques foster stronger teams and unlock potential. Here’s how to use them effectively.

What Is Feedback?

Feedback evaluates past performance, identifying strengths and areas for improvement. It’s a cornerstone of accountability but often feels critical if not delivered thoughtfully.

Example in Action

In a workplace scenario, feedback might sound like:

The report was thorough, but the late submission caused delays. Let’s work on meeting deadlines.

While constructive, feedback’s retrospective nature can sometimes feel limiting.

What Is Feedforward?

Feedforward shifts the focus from what went wrong to what can go right. It encourages growth by providing actionable advice for future success.

Example in Action

Using the same workplace scenario, feedforward could be:

For the next report, try setting smaller milestones to ensure deadlines are met. Your insights are valuable, and this will ensure they’re delivered on time."*

This approach inspires confidence and motivates individuals to perform better.

Combining Feedback and Feedforward for Success

Integrating these approaches creates a balanced strategy. Feedback ensures accountability, while feedforward fosters a positive, growth-oriented mindset.

Why Feedforward Works

1. Focus on Future Potential: Feedforward inspires action by addressing opportunities, not failures.

2. Encourages Positivity: It’s easier to accept suggestions for growth than criticism for past mistakes.

3. Broad Applicability: Feedforward can be used by anyone, regardless of their role or familiarity with the recipient.

Everyday Applications of Feedforward

- In Leadership: Boost team performance by focusing on future goals. Example: Let’s aim for a more dynamic presentation next time by simplifying slides and practicing delivery.

- At Home: Guide children with encouraging language. Instead of *"You’re always messy,"* try, Tidying up daily keeps your space more comfortable.

- For Personal Growth: Redirect self-criticism. Rather than thinking, "I should’ve prepared better," say, "Next time, I’ll create a detailed plan to succeed."

How to Start Using Feedforward

Follow these steps for a feedforward exercise:

1. Choose one behavior you’d like to improve.

2. Share this with a trusted individual and request two suggestions for change.

3. Listen actively, take notes, and avoid defending past actions.

4. Thank them for their input.

By focusing on actionable, future-oriented advice, feedforward builds an atmosphere of growth and collaboration.

Feedforward isn’t just a leadership tool; it’s a philosophy that empowers people to embrace potential. By integrating it with traditional feedback, you’ll cultivate a growth mindset and foster a supportive, forward-looking environment. Start today—your team and personal growth journey will thank you!

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