Seeing Feedback Through a Different Lens
Throughout my career and life, I have often found myself questioning the value of formal assessments. I have always believed that there should be consistent feedback between a manager and team members. Individuals should own their careers and the growth they want to achieve. The process of holding mid-year and end-of-year reviews seemed more like a way to manage expenses associated with company profitability, rather than focusing on employee growth. In many cases, companies cannot maintain the headcount that results from the ebbs and flows associated with the dynamic economic environment in which we live. All of that to say that there are two sides to every story, and one has to take the good with the bad.
It wasn’t until recently that I saw things in a different light. It wasn’t in business, it was in organized youth sports.
After experiencing multiple years of club soccer, we transitioned into the world of travel baseball. The club soccer experience has proven to be incredibly positive, leading to tremendous athletic and personal growth. The use of individual development plans midway through each season has enabled us to see where strengths and weaknesses exist, and align with the coach on a plan for further highlighting the strengths and developing the weaker areas. This process has enabled our son to continue focusing on growing within the season and from year to year.
Our first season of travel baseball has been quite different. Feedback has been provided in the moment, after making mistakes with base running, after strikeouts at the plate, and while practicing fielding balls in the infield and outfield. In-the-moment feedback is a great way for kids to recognize what they need to change and immediately apply it the next time they are in the same position, which is usually within the same game. The one thing that did not occur with baseball is a mid-season assessment.
Both approaches to providing feedback lead to growth. However, when mid-season assessments are provided, athletes have a clearer view of what they need to do to help the team win games, as well as remain on the team.
Ultimately, there are no surprises when consistent feedback, combined with assessments, are used with athletes and employees. Both work in harmony and lead to the best possible outcomes.
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