The Power of Peer-to-Peer Feedback

We often underestimate the power of peer-to-peer feedback. People need feedback. We really don't know how well or how poorly we are doing if others don't let us know how we're performing. When was the last time you heard, "Good job," or, "I've struggled with that report set up too. Can I show you what finally worked well for me?" Some research findings indicate that two in three employees want more feedback than they currently receive. Two in three, that's the majority of your workplace. Do you wish you received more feedback than you're getting today? Obviously, those who lead, manage, or supervise others are responsible to provide feedback on performance. But some of the most effective workplaces also use peer-to-peer feedback. Why? Because the people who work alongside each other can be an invaluable source of accurate and timely feedback.

Peer feedback is not intended to replace manager feedback, but to supplement it. Effective peer feedback is characteristic of close-knit, cohesive, highly functioning work teams where people believe in mutual accountability and helping each other get things done. Are you getting or giving the peer-to-peer feedback you need in your team and organization? Just think about where this could make a difference for you.