The Sandwich Method of feedback is a popular technique used in both professional and personal settings to deliver potentially sensitive feedback in a way that is more likely to be received positively by the recipient. The method involves “sandwiching” the critical feedback between two positive comments.

Here’s How the Sandwich Method is Structured:

1.0 Positive Opening: Start with positive feedback. Highlight something that the individual has done well. This sets a positive tone for the conversation and makes the recipient more open to listening. It’s important that this praise is genuine and specific to ensure that the person feels truly recognised for their efforts.

2.0 Constructive Feedback: After the initial positive note, you transition into the constructive feedback. This is where you address the area that needs improvement. It’s crucial to be specific about the behaviour or performance that needs to change and to focus on the issue, not the person. Providing clear examples and the impact of their actions can help the individual understand the feedback better.

3.0 Positive Conclusion: End the feedback session with another positive note. This could be encouragement, confidence in their ability to improve, or recognition of their strengths. The aim is to leave the conversation on a positive note, ensuring the individual feels supported and motivated to make the changes discussed.

Advantages of the Sandwich Method:

• Reduces Defensiveness: By starting and ending with positive feedback, the individual is less likely to become defensive when the constructive criticism is presented (Calvello, 2021).
• Motivates Change: Ending on a positive note can leave the recipient feeling hopeful and motivated to address the areas of improvement (Calvello, 2021).
• Builds Relationships: This method can help maintain and even strengthen relationships, as it ensures that feedback is delivered in a caring and supportive manner (Miles, 2022).

Criticisms of the Sandwich Method:

• May Dilute the Message: Some critics argue that the positive messages may dilute the importance of the constructive feedback, especially if the recipient focuses only on the positive aspects (Miles, 2022).
• Can Become Predictable: If used repeatedly with the same individuals, they may come to anticipate the structure and dismiss the positive feedback as insincere, focusing only on the negative (Calvello, 2021).
• Potential for Confusion: If not done carefully, sandwiching feedback can lead to confusion about the overall message, particularly if the positive aspects are not directly related to the area of improvement (Miles, 2022).

Despite these criticisms, when used appropriately and with genuine feedback, the Sandwich Method can be an effective way to communicate areas for improvement while still affirming the individual’s value and contributions (Calvello, 2021). It’s most effective when the positive feedback is directly relevant to the individual’s strengths and the constructive criticism is clear, specific, and actionable.

References:

Calvello. M. (2021) “The Feedback Sandwich: Should You Use It? (Pros and Cons)”. [online]. Available on: https://fellow.app/blog/feedback/the-feedback-sandwich-should-you-use-it-pros-and-cons/.

Miles, M. (2022) “Should you use the feedback sandwich? 7 pros and cons”. [online]. Available on: https://www.betterup.com/blog/feedback-sandwich.