It really does pay to give employees a pat on the back

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to present tips for leaders on receiving and giving feedback. Design/methodology/approach – Various types of feedback and the difference between feedback and criticism have been described. Findings – It has been emphasized that leaders need to view feedback as a developmental tool. Its importance in achieving leadership excellence also has been stressed. Practical implications – This paper argues that feedback helps employees to recognize their blind spots, correct themselves and perform better. It also serves as an employee retention tool. People crave feedback, especially positive feedback. But the feedback givers must know the art of giving feedback so that they are respected for it. Social implications – This paper advances the view that people excel through improvement and can improve through feedback. Originality/value – This paper describes how to use feedback as a tool to develop future leaders.