Feedback Strategies: Beyond the compliment sandwich

The compliment sandwich technique is not always effective... Twitter

How to Give Feedback Without Sounding Like a Jerk

This article addresses an issue I've struggled with ever since I began managing, years and companies ago... Age gaps make addressing elders a tricky situation, especially if there are years of difference in your history with a company. I wish I'd read this years ago!
1. Explain why you're giving the feedback - a solid reason attached can help a lot, and make the feedback far more relevant
2. Get off a pedastal (or even better, don't get on one in the first place) - No one likes being talked down to. While it's possible some people will not respond to anything other than a direct superior (or forceful words), you catch more flies with honey, and equal treatment usually garners more respect and consideration of the feedback in question.
3. Ask if they want feedback - usually people say yes, even if it's just curiosity
4. Don't monologue - treat it as a conversation, not a speech.

The Trouble With Amazing

It bothers me when "AMAZING" comes out in mundane, typical days at work; it's kind of hard to put this into words, but it feels weirdly condescending when I'm extravagantly complimented for just doing my job on a regular day, especially by coworkers or management. Over the top praise for basic work doesn't actually help me much, and sometimes sets the bar so low for everyone that it becomes "FANTASTIC" just to show up on time. I stop listening to people who use lavish, unrequited praise pretty early on simply because it's not realistic or helpful, while specific acknowledgement (positive or negative) of a situation or event that occurred will always be taken seriously.