Better Feedback, Better Team: 5 Lessons Every Leader Should Know

As business owners we wear a lot of hats, we are visionary leaders, strategist, problem-solver, mentor. But one of the most important (and often most uncomfortable) parts of leading a team is giving feedback.

It doesn’t matter if you have a small team or a fast-growing company, the way you give feedback can build trust, improve performance, and shape your entire company culture.

And yet… many leaders avoid it. Or wait too long. Or say it in a way that hurts more than it helps.

That’s why this recent Forbes article, “How to Deliver Effective Feedback: 20 Key Leadership Maxims,” really stood out to me. It’s packed with simple but powerful reminders for any leader who wants to grow a strong, healthy team.

Here are a few of the lessons that hit home:

1. Feedback is a powerful tool, not punishment

Most people think of feedback as criticism. But when it’s done right, it shows your team that you care about them. Not just the work they do, but their growth too.

2. Being Clear Is Being Kind

If you’ve ever tiptoed around a hard topic, you’re not alone. But being vague helps no one. Being clear, while still respectful makes it easier for your team to learn and improve.

3. Waiting Too Long Makes Things Worse

The longer you avoid giving feedback, the more problems can build up. A small issue can turn into a big one. Don’t wait, make feedback part of how you lead every day.

4. Kind Doesn’t Mean Soft

You can care about your team and still be direct. In fact, real leadership means saying what needs to be said, even when it’s tough because you want your people to succeed.

5. Don’t Just Point Out Problems, Help Solve Them

Great feedback isn’t just “here’s what went wrong.” It’s “here’s how we can make it better.” Ask questions. Listen. Teach. Support. That’s where growth happens.