Friday, March 4, 2011
Observer Feedback Guidelines
Whenever I have observed a group or there has been an observer for a group I have been in, there are certain guidelines that need to be followed. I have been taught over the years that just saying "good job" is not very helpful because the whole reason why a group has an observer is to see what needs to be improved(there is always need for improvement for any area in life) as well as what went really well. It is also helpful to mention and to view behaviors of the members in the group and what should or needs to be changed. The whole point of being an observer is also to not to stir up a dispute amongst any of the group members. An observer is there to observe, and report their opinions of the group's behaviors, stated comments and remarks and verbal and nonverbal communication. It is also imperative to be aware the main reason of being an observer by maintaining one's role and for example, one trait an observer should possess is starting off with their inferences on what went well (the positive) and end with what needs to be improved. It is also the observer's role to be clear and specific as to what they are trying to state and infer to the group. If a statement made by the observer is hard to follow or understand, the group will not have a concise and clear understanding on how to improve. Lastly, it is key that the observer, also tries to develop a nice bond or relationship with the group members during the feedback process because by trying to stray away from insulting, or having a negative attitude during the process, the group will feel comfortable and willing to listen more to the observer because they know the observer is a non-biased and nice person who's main goal is to be there to help the group improve and grow for the future.
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I totally agree with when you stated “that just saying good job is not very helpful because the whole reason why a group has an observer is to see what needs to be improved as well as what went really well.” If an observer were to tell the group good job, the group would be wondering good job to what? I’ll admit it feels good to hear someone tell you good job but it’s more fulfilling when there more specific on what you did well. That’s exactly how observers need to be they need to be specific on stating what needs improvement and what are they succeeding in.
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