Ditch the 'Compliment Sandwich'. Here's How to Give Feedback That Works.

Let’s be honest: the “compliment sandwich” kind of sucks.

It often feels fake, forced, and condescending.
You can tell when someone’s buttering you up — and it doesn’t feel honest. It feels manipulative.

So what’s better?
Try this 5-part feedback framework: S-B-I-R-C.

🔹 S – Situation: Anchor your feedback in a specific place and time.
🔹 B – Behavior: Describe what happened. Just the facts, no stories or assumptions.
🔹 I – Impact: Share how it affected you or the work.
🔹 R – Request/Recommendation: Offer a specific, constructive next step.
🔹 C – Check-in/Confirmation: Make sure the message landed.

Example:
“In yesterday’s meeting (S), you interrupted me twice while I was speaking (B). I felt dismissed and frustrated (I). Going forward, I’d appreciate it if you’d let me finish my thought before jumping in (R). Will you do that? (C)”

Clear. Constructive. Respectful.
Not sugarcoated, not vague — just real.

What feedback frameworks have you found most helpful?

#Feedback #Communication #GrowthMindset #MakingYourselfClear