Feedback Culture Across Generations Needs Training, Not Generational Solutions
CEO argues Gen Z's feedback reception issues stem from lack of training, not the generation. Company culture improved through staff education on feedback methods.
Fast Company's CEO challenges the common perception that younger generations, like Gen Z, struggle with receiving feedback. Instead, she posits that the issue lies not with the generations themselves, but with how organizations teach and facilitate constructive feedback.
The original narrative recounts the CEO's own early career struggles with providing feedback. Fear of offering criticism led to a team that failed to develop and problems that accumulated. A turning point came through communication training, after which the team's culture significantly improved, leading to better employee retention.
Currently, the company emphasizes the importance of open communication and feedback. This involves integrating feedback training into onboarding, committing to delivering feedback within 24 hours of an issue arising, and establishing clear communication norms. Feedback is also provided specifically on the skills of giving and receiving feedback.
According to the CEO, these practices help build trust and enhance teamwork across generational lines. The problem is not Gen Z, but rather that individuals are not systematically taught the skills to provide and receive constructive feedback.