Some common mistakes with multi-rater feedback include a lack of training, communication, and skills in giving feedback.
Gathering feedback from employees who do not know how to give it is unhelpful. Gathering feedback from lots of employees who don’t know how to give feedback is a terrible waste of time. Don’t ask for anyone’s feedback before you are confident that they know how to provide it effectively.
For example, all employees need to give actionable feedback. Unfortunately, a lot of words and time is wasted on feedback that doesn’t help anyone because it is overly positive, not specific or based on traits (not behaviors one can stop or start doing).
Lastly, if an employee does not recognize the importance of their unique perspective, they may not give good feedback or feedback at all. Help employees see how their feedback leads to a better team, department and organization.