When asked what is missing in their work environment, caseworkers most frequently identify feedback and recognition. Feedback is the principle means of maintaining and improving staff performance. It confirms desired results, identifies gaps between what the caseworker is doing and what the supervisor expects, and provides information about how to improve results. Without feedback, caseworkers are left to wonder about how the supervisor views them and their performance. Without feedback and recognition, the cycle of burnout is hastened.
Feedback meets several underlying personal needs for caseworkers.
It affects staff's feelings of self-worth, and it responds to needs for growth. Positive feedback meets staff's needs for intimacy and security. Furthermore, to the extent feedback is more positive than negative, caseworkers feel more secure. More effective supervisors tend to offer three to five times more positive feedback than negative feedback. Evaluative Feedback Evaluative feedback compares results with expectations.