Upward Feedback

What is upward feedback?

Upward feedback is a process where employees share input about their managers or senior leaders. It gives leadership a direct view of how their team experiences their style, decisions, and communication.

Why is upward feedback important?

• Leadership Development: Managers see specific ways to improve from the people they actually manage.
• Employee Voice: Employees feel heard when their input shapes how leaders behave.
• Better Decisions: Leaders close blind spots by hearing from the team, not just from their peers.

What are the common challenges with upward feedback?

• Fear of Repercussions: Employees hold back if they think honest feedback will affect their career.
• Personal Bias: Feedback can reflect one bad experience instead of a pattern.
• No Follow-Up: If managers don't act on what they hear, employees stop participating.

Best Practices for Upward Feedback

• Use anonymous surveys: Anonymity protects employees and produces honest input.
• Run regular cycles: Quarterly or semi-annual cycles beat an annual review.
• Close the loop: Managers must share what they heard and what they will change.