06/05/2026
Most feedback fails before a single word is spoken.
Your team doesn't just hear your message — they read your body. Tense shoulders, a hard stare, a clipped tone — and their guard goes up before you've made your point.
Here's the difference:
Evaluative presence feels like judgment. Crossed arms, fixed jaw, a nervous system on edge. It signals, "I'm here to assess you."
Supportive presence feels like care. Open posture, steady (not piercing) eye contact, a calm body. It signals, "I'm here to help you succeed."
Before you give feedback, check in with yourself first.
🔹 Get clear about your intent.
🔹 Make sure you're acting from genuine care — for the person and the organization.
🔹 Settle your own nervous system before you settle into the conversation.
Try this: the Swaying Tree.
🔹 Plant your feet close together on the floor
🔹 Relax your spine and let your arms hang loose
🔹 Sway gently from side to side
This simple movement releases muscle tension and soothes your nervous system. When you walk in calm and open, you're far less likely to trigger a defensive reaction.
Soft, open body language. Clear, kind words. That's how feedback actually lands.
What's the hardest part of giving feedback for you?
