I believe the organization culture is an essential, how we communicate within the organization, how we relate to one another is important.  In order to maintain a caring, positive culture, it is important to focus on what is going right with the employees. “Find the thing your marginal employee currently does well, no matter how small, and focus on that”(Lepsinger, 2010).  This is crucial, if an employer takes their time to compliment what is going well for their employee along with what may need improvement, it may be more efficient.  However, I have different experiences that I can share one example of my feedback to an employee and their reaction to validate this.  I recall an LPN (Licensed Practical Nurse) once documented something not following the documentation standards, then later when I provided my feedback for improvement this LPN was defensive and did not take it well.  I was very calm and gentle with my approach and was simply coaching this LPN.  I couldn’t believe the attitude of the LPN.  I had previously complimented this LPN and one feedback to improve did not go well.  I wonder if anyone else has anything to share.  This was a negative for me to give feedback and realize no matter how nice or gentle you may be, not everyone takes it well.  Regardless for me, I have continued to give constructive feedback, and always made a point of giving positive feedback to employees.  I think we all learn from criticism, however, we also need to be more mindful on how it is presented.

References

Lepsinger, R. (2010). Closing the execution gap: How great leaders and their companies get results. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass.