Advice: Five things to consider when giving feedback to sensitive staff Written by Caroline Roberts Tuesday 25 July 2023 Share Share to LinkedIn Share to Facebook Share via email Some people struggle with receiving constructive criticism. Delivering feedback to some team members requires a careful and considered – but honest – approach. Here’s how to do it We all feel anxiety over the quality of our work from time to time. Ever lost sleep over the one small thing that went wrong in a project rather than focusing on all the things that went right? For some people, this is a constant state of being. Highly sensitive people (HSPs), according to the psychologist that coined the term, Elaine Aron, make up around 15–20% of the population. HSPs are often strongly empathetic with highly developed social skills, but they can find certain environments overstimulating, can be easily overwhelmed and emotionally sensitive. On top of this, the changes brought about by Covid-19 and the ongoing cost-of-living crisis has increased the prevalence of anxiety and depression by 25% globally, according to World Health Organisation data. This has, in turn, increased the levels of emotional sensitivity in the workforce, with managers having to tread a fine line when it comes to delivering feedback. Eight ways bad managers kill conversations – and motivation Want to discover five tips for delivering feedback? Login or register below for Free Instant Access Login If you are already registered as a CMI Friend, Subscriber or Member, just login to view this article. Confirm your registration Login below to confirm your details and access this article. Log in Register for Free Access Not yet a Member, Subscriber or Friend? Register as a CMI Friend for free, and get access to this and many other exclusive resources, as well as weekly updates straight to your inbox. Advice Looking for advice and guidance? Whether you are looking for topical tips or information, you can find the latest advice and guidance from the CMI team here. Members See More CMI Members have access to thousands of online learning and CPD resources. Learn more about our membership benefits Join The Community CMI offers a variety of flexible membership solutions, tailored to your needs. Find out more and get involved in the CMI community today.