Over the years I’ve learned to be a little better at delivering feedback. This is a skilled that was learned; through failure, correction and repetition. Not sure if anyone is just “naturally” a great feedback provider. If there are, I’d sure love to meet them and continue to learn new things from them. But at least for me, it’s an ongoing process.
For me, I think there are a couple of key components to delivering good feedback:
- It needs to be timely
- It has to be specific
- It should be delivered constructively
Timely
Ever talk to a player during the week about something they did at last Saturday’s match so you can help them improve?
Yes, me too. Insert eyes rolling, glassy looks or complete blank stares from your players here.
Unless we coach a player immediately or soon after a learning situation occurs, chances are we miss that opportunity for a teachable moment. Try and provide suggestions to a player in the flow of the game or training (if they’re near you and you don’t have to shout at them) or as they leave the field (before they sit down and disconnect). This gives you the best chance to create an impactful moment for them. Although this can be a little easier at training, it still has its challenges as well.
Specific
What do you see in this picture?
(we can all see different things when looking at the SAME picture and be correct)
When we give feedback we need to tell the recipient of the message exactly what we want them to do, or to know. The more general the feedback, the greater the opportunity that it will be misinterpreted. Everyone sees the world through their own eyes. We each have unique paradigms. Being clear is a sign of respecting the person and allowing them to see your true intention, to help them become a better player through your feedback.
Constructive
Remember, we are here to help everyone on our teams and those around us improve. To be better this week than they were last week. Never ending progress. How we deliver our messages is important. The words we use are important. We are often working with dozens of kids in tight spaces with different levels of ability and motivation. Do your best to understand your players and how they best receive feedback to ensure your giving them the best chance to grow and develop.
Enjoy your football!
-Coach Eddie