Positive feedback for employees
24 examples managers can use in a one-to-one, a message or a team meeting.
When a manager notices something specific and says so, people know what to do again. The examples below follow the same 3 parts: what happened, what the person did, what it changed.
In a one-to-one
Before we start, I want to say that the way you handled [situation] last week was very good. [What they did], and [what it changed].
Three months ago, [task] was difficult for you. Now you are doing it without help. I wanted to tell you I noticed.
One thing you do well is [strength]. On [project], it made the difference.
I want to give you [responsibility]. Your handling of [situation] shows you are ready.
The mistake was small, but the way you told me and fixed it was exactly right. Thank you.
You have done well on [task]. What would you like to do more of?
In a written message
[Name], thank you for [task]. It was [on time, accurate, thorough], and it let us [result].
Your point in today's meeting about [topic] changed the decision. Thank you for raising it.
The last 2 weeks were hard, and you kept going without losing quality. I appreciate it.
I do not always say it, but the way you keep [process] running makes everyone's work easier.
[Name] has done excellent work on [project]. I am copying you in so you can see it.
A customer wrote about you today. I am forwarding it with thanks. The words are theirs.
In a team meeting
I want to thank [name] for [what they did]. It saved us [result].
The [team] finished [project] 2 weeks early. Each of you did your part, and I am grateful.
I want to point out something good: when [name] disagreed with the plan, they said so politely and offered another one. That is what we want in this team.
The client said [quote]. That is down to the work of [names].
It is 1 year since [name] joined. In that time, they have [what they did].
[Name] showed what it looks like to help a colleague in difficulty. Thank you.
For specific situations
You have been here a few weeks, and you are already doing [task] well. Welcome.
I know this has been hard. I can see how much effort you are putting in, and it is working.
You did not get the role this time, and I want you to know your work on [project] was noticed. Here is what would help next time.
Thank you for covering [extra work]. I will make sure it is recognized.
Thank you for [long project]. It took months, and you stayed with it.
Thank you for being the first to try the new process. It showed the rest of us it could be done.
Questions
How do managers give positive feedback?
Describe what the person did and what it changed. Do it soon, in person where possible, and mean it.
How often should a manager give positive feedback?
As often as there is something specific to say. Some managers aim for once a week per person. Do not give it if it is not true.