So, the overwhelming majority of the feedback should be praise. Think about the last time you got some sincere positive strokes from your boss. While we re at it, think about the last time you got a hefty pay hike. As a manager or supervisor, you may have to work within very narrow parameters when setting or increasing pay rates for your staff. And since pay raises aren t likely to happen more than once or twice a year, that indirect method of praise needs be considered secondary.
Direct praise is primary.
John, I d just like you to know that I really appreciate how hard you work. Your commitment to satisfying customer needs makes the whole company look good. You can stop John in the hallway to tell him. You can call him in to your office for a minute. You can write him a letter or a post-it note.