In this episode, Gwen and Will have an honest conversation about one of the most important — and most uncomfortable — parts of management: feedback.

They unpack what feedback really is, why it has such a powerful impact on performance, and how regular, well-delivered feedback can help build a culture where people don’t dread it — they actively seek it out.

Gwen and Will also explore the common reasons managers hold back: uncertainty about how to give feedback effectively, fear of damaging relationships, worries about emotional reactions, and the simple fact that these conversations can feel awkward for everyone involved.

They explore the difference between being nice and being kind when it comes to feedback.

Finally, they share practical techniques for delivering feedback with clarity and empathy, handling difficult reactions, and turning challenging conversations into opportunities for development and stronger working relationships.

In episode 2 of the manager series, Gwen and Will focus on the evolution of the performance management process, and the reasons why the process can feel like a “tick-in-the-box” exercise.

They talk about how managers need to focus on what’s most important, the conversation, and the ingredients of an effective performance conversation, including career expectations and development.

They look at why avoiding having these conversations can be perceived by employees as a lack of caring, and why saying nothing can create a gap that gets filled with assumptions, rumours or misunderstandings.

Lastly, they explore how regular informal performance conversations mitigate the impact of challenging ratings discussions by managing employee expectations.

Welcome to Season 2 of Talking Sense! The theme for this series is Management.

Gwen and Will talk about the definition of a manager, what they’re responsible for, and the challenges of the leap to manager. In particular the pitfalls of being a “super doer”, perhaps something that enabled the promotion in the first place.

They discuss how being a great manager first of all means a change of mindset, and how a manager’s focusshould be on ensuring they create a motivated and empowered team. Who, when they perform well, in turn reflects positively on the manager.

There also needs to be a willingness to deal with difficult situations, getting comfortable with the uncomfortable, thereby removing the barriers to better performance.

Enjoy!