How Great Leaders Give Tough Feedback

72% of employees say they want more feedback.

But 95% of leaders struggle to deliver it effectively.

Why?

Because there’s a world of difference
between feedback that builds up
and feedback that deflates.

When feedback feels like judgment:

Trust breaks.
Growth stalls.
Good people pull away.

But when it feels like support,
teams can truly grow and learn.

Here’s how the most impactful leaders give tough
feedback without being harsh:

1️⃣ Give feedback in private
→ Not in front of others
→ Public criticism creates public armor

2️⃣ Be clear and neutral
→ Not vague or judgmental
→ Confusion breeds anxiety and delay

3️⃣ Start and end with positives
→ Don’t jump straight to criticism
→ Context in conversation creates safety

4️⃣ Focus on behavior, not character
→ Build trust, not blame
→ Progress comes through changed actions

5️⃣ Offer next steps and support
→ Don’t leave them hanging
→ Guidance builds confidence and elevates results

Here’s what most leaders miss:

Tough feedback isn’t what breaks trust.
Feedback without respect does.

When your team feels respected…
They lean in.
They learn.
They level up.

Leading people is all about being human.

About letting your team know you believe in them
enough to be honest.

And care about them enough
to highlight the areas they can grow.

How do you prefer to receive tough feedback?

(72% & 95% stat source: Harvard Business Review)