Feedback has always been a cornerstone of growth and development, both personally and professionally. In our quest to improve employee performance, we often look for tools that can make delivering feedback not just meaningful, but actionable. This is where the BOOST feedback model comes in.
More than just another feedback mechanism, BOOST serves as a guide. Ensuring that our feedback makes sense, is genuinely useful, and most importantly, leads to the desired outcomes. BOOST is an acronym which stands for Balanced, Objective, Observed, Specific and Timely.
In this guide, we will explain the BOOST model and its benefits for employee performance feedback. Use it to consider using the BOOST model for feedback in your organisation.
The Essentials of the BOOST Feedback Model
BOOST Feedback Background
The BOOST feedback model is not just another feedback acronym. It’s a structured approach designed to ensure clarity, fairness, and effectiveness in feedback delivery. Its origins are traced back to the increasing need for more structured and impactful feedback in professional settings. Especially in environments where rapid responses are crucial for growth and adaptation.
You can use BOOST for employee appraisals and throughout the performance management review cycle.
Its applications include;
- Ensuring consistent, actionable feedback
- Reinforcing positive behaviours
- Identifying and addressing areas of improvement
- Fostering a culture of continuous growth and open communication.
The BOOST Feedback Model Explained
The BOOST model at its core elevates the feedback process to be more impactful, constructive, and memorable. By focusing on balance, objectivity, observation, specificity, and timing, BOOST ensures feedback not only drives improvement but also reinforces positive behaviour. This sets a clear path for ongoing professional development.
Balance, in this context, means having both positive and negative feedback, recognising what you are doing well and areas for improvement.
- Balanced: To truly drive performance and motivation, feedback should incorporate both the positives and areas of improvement. Balanced feedback identifies performance gaps while also recognising and celebrating strengths.
- Objective: Feedback should always revolve around observed facts and specific behaviours. It shouldn’t be clouded by emotions or personal biases. Objective feedback is not just credible but also actionable.
- Observed: Citing specific instances makes feedback more relatable. Instead of making broad statements, referring to particular events or actions adds weight to your feedback. Making it easier for the employee to understand and relate.
- Specific: Vague feedback often leads to confusion. Be specific so the receiver knows exactly what to continue, change, or improve upon.
- Timely: Immediate feedback is more impactful. Appreciate a job well done or point out areas needing improvement; timely feedback ensures immediate action and better reception.
BOOST vs. Other Feedback Models
In the area of professional development and team management, lots of feedback models have emerged over the years. Each comes with its own set of advantages and challenges. Let’s dive into some of the most popular feedback models and see how BOOST compares.
The Sandwich Feedback Model
Brief Overview:
Often referred to as the “praise-criticism-praise” technique, the Sandwich Model involves beginning with positive feedback, followed by constructive criticism, and then ending with additional positive feedback. The idea is to soften the impact of criticism by surrounding it with praise by giving you direction on the way to deliver the feedback.
BOOST Feedback vs Sandwich Feedback:
While both models emphasise the importance of balanced feedback, the Sandwich Model can sometimes dilute the core message. If not delivered correctly, the recipient might focus only on the positive feedback and overlook areas of improvement. On the other hand, BOOST’s balanced approach is more direct, focusing on specific observed behaviours without wrapping them in layers.
Pros and Cons:
- Pros: Can make criticism easier to digest; establishes a positive tone.
- Cons: Potential for mixed messages; central feedback may be overlooked or minimised.
The SBI Feedback Model (Situation-Behaviour-Impact)
Brief Overview:
SBI focuses on providing feedback based on a specific Situation, observed Behaviour, and its resulting Impact. The goal is to provide clear, descriptive feedback without making it personal and ensure that the employee understands the impact of their behaviours.
BOOST Feedback vs. SBI Feedback:
Both SBI and BOOST stress the significance of observed behaviours. While SBI puts a strong emphasis on the impact or outcome of the behaviour, BOOST leans more towards providing a comprehensive feedback mechanism that balances positive and constructive observations, ensuring timely and specific feedback.
Pros and Cons:
- Pros: Clearly links behaviour to outcomes; prevents personal biases.
- Cons: Can be time-consuming; requires a deep understanding of situations and their outcomes.
The STAR Feedback Model (Situation-Task-Action-Result)
Brief Overview:
STAR breaks feedback down into the Situation, the Task to accomplish, the Action taken, and the Result of that action. This method is particularly useful in interviews and performance reviews.
BOOST Feedback vs STAR:
While STAR provides a narrative approach to feedback, drawing clear lines from situations to outcomes, BOOST’s strength lies in its brevity and directness. BOOST focuses on actionable feedback without diving deep into narratives, making it efficient for quick and frequent feedback sessions.
Pros and Cons:
- Pros: Comprehensive; great for detailed analysis.
- Cons: Can be lengthy; might not be suitable for on-the-spot feedback.
Key Takeaways
The BOOST model, while being comprehensive, is succinct and to the point. It eliminates the fluff and focuses on what truly matters, making it an ideal choice for fast-paced environments where timely and effective feedback is crucial. However, depending on the context and the depth of feedback required, other models might be more appropriate.
Tips for Implementing BOOST in Your Organisation:
Effective feedback is more than just knowing the right model—it’s about integrating it seamlessly into your organisation’s culture. Let’s explore some strategies to make the BOOST model a staple in your feedback mechanisms.
Training and Development:v
- Educate the Team: Before implementing BOOST, ensure your team understands its essence. Organise training sessions to explain the model in detail and emphasize the importance of each component.
- Role-playing Activities: Organise workshops where team members role-play giving and receiving feedback using the BOOST model. This hands-on approach helps cement understanding and prepares them for real-world applications.
- Resources and Tools: Invest in training materials, maybe even a dedicated mobile app or portal, where employees can revisit the principles of BOOST, see examples, and even practice.
Communication:
- Setting Clear Expectations: From the outset, make it clear that the organisation values feedback and that BOOST is the chosen method. This sets the stage and ensures everyone is on the same page.
- Open-door Policy: Encourage an environment where team members feel free to approach superiors or peers for feedback. This promotes a culture of openness and continuous learning.
Feedback Culture:
- Normalise Feedback: Feedback shouldn’t be an event—it should be a regular part of professional interactions. Encourage teams to provide feedback after meetings, projects, or even informal interactions.
- Recognition and Rewards: Celebrate those who effectively use the BOOST model to provide constructive feedback. This not only reinforces the importance of the model but also motivates others to engage actively.
Regular Review:
- Feedback on Feedback: Just as employees receive feedback, the process itself should be reviewed. Regularly check in with teams to gauge their reception of the BOOST model and understand the challenges they face.
- Refinement: Like any other process, feedback mechanisms can always be improved. Based on reviews, refine the implementation of BOOST to ensure it meets the organisation’s evolving needs.
Feedback remains an important tool for organisational and personal growth. With the BOOST feedback model, you not only structure feedback but also ensure it’s impactful and constructive. Embracing this model might be the shift your organisation needs to foster a truly collaborative and growth-centric environment. As with any approach, the key lies in understanding, adaptation, and consistent application.
Needless to say, PerformanceHub supports structured feedback, so why not take a look at how PerformanceHub can help you today?
