How do you use the CEDAR model to give better feedback?

Feedback is a vital skill for any leader, manager, or team member. It can help improve performance, motivation, and relationships. But giving feedback is not always easy or effective. How can you avoid common pitfalls and deliver feedback that is clear, constructive, and respectful? One useful tool is the CEDAR model, a simple and practical framework for giving better feedback. In this article, you will learn what the CEDAR model is, how it works, and how to apply it in different situations.

1 What is CEDAR?

CEDAR stands for Context, Examples, Diagnosis, Action, and Review. It is a feedback model that helps you structure your feedback in a way that is specific, relevant, and actionable. By following the CEDAR model, you can ensure that your feedback is based on facts, not opinions, and that it focuses on the future, not the past. The CEDAR model also helps you avoid vague or general feedback that can be confusing or demotivating for the receiver.

Add your perspective

2 How does CEDAR work?

The CEDAR model consists of five steps when giving feedback. To start, set the scene and explain the purpose and scope of your feedback; for instance, "I want to give you some feedback on your presentation today" or "I'm here to discuss your progress on the project". Then provide specific and observable examples of what the person did well or needs to improve. After that, explain the impact or consequences of their behavior or performance. Afterwards, suggest or agree on concrete and realistic actions for them to take. Finally, summarize the main points and set a date or method to follow up. For example, "To recap, you did a great job on your presentation, but you need to work on your time management and communication skills. Let's meet again in two weeks to see how you are doing".

Add your perspective

Anna Wildman

Making difficult workplace conversations easy | Creator, CEDAR feedback steps | Author, NOW You're Talking! | BSI committee member developing Performance Mgmt ISO.
Report contribution
These are the right feedback steps, but the wrong person doing the talking. The difference with CEDAR is it encourages the RECEIVER to lead the conversation. Once Context and Examples are clear, they are the ones who should lead Diagnosis and Actions. That way they gain invaluable insights and choose their own pathway forward. It's also useful if they set the Review date i.e. when to check back with the manager. If the manager leads these steps there's no buy-in or ownership by the team member. BTW, it's more positive to open the Context by saying something like “Lets explore how [X] is going” rather than “I want to give you some feedback”.

Like

3 When to use CEDAR?

The CEDAR model can be used in various situations to provide feedback, such as performance reviews, coaching sessions, peer feedback, positive feedback, and constructive feedback. For instance, when evaluating someone's achievements over a period of time, the CEDAR model can be used to evaluate their strengths and areas for development. It can also be used to guide a person's learning and growth by providing feedback on their skills, behaviors, and goals. Moreover, it can be used to share feedback with colleagues or team members in a respectful and constructive way. Additionally, the CEDAR model can be employed to recognize and appreciate someone's efforts and results by highlighting what they did well and how they contributed. Finally, it can be utilized to help someone improve and overcome their challenges by pointing out what they need to change and how they can do it.

Add your perspective

4 How to use CEDAR effectively?

To use the CEDAR model effectively, you should prepare your feedback in advance by thinking about what you want to say and how you want to say it. Additionally, it is important to choose the right time and place to give feedback, as well as use positive and respectful language. Furthermore, it is essential to listen and engage the person receiving the feedback and follow up and support them after the session. This includes agreeing on next steps, providing resources and guidance, monitoring their progress, and giving feedback and recognition as they improve.

Add your perspective

Rodolfo Tello

Ayudo a emprendedores y empresas a buscar una solución amplificadora de ventas, en los pilares de “Content | Ads | Coaching ++ | Co-Founder RedStone Agencia 🚀 | Facilitador de negocios digitales + IA”
Report contribution
Este método lo aplico constantemente y lo hago en reuniones semanales con todo el equipo de trabajo, este relacionado directa o indirectamente con la idea que tenemos como objetivo.

Translated

Like

5 What are the benefits of CEDAR?

Using the CEDAR model can bring many benefits for both you and the person receiving the feedback, such as increasing the clarity and relevance of your feedback, enhancing its effectiveness and impact, strengthening the trust and rapport between you and the person, and fostering a culture of feedback and learning in your organization. This will make it easier for the person to understand and accept your feedback, more likely for them to act on it and improve their performance, and more comfortable and productive to give and receive feedback.

Add your perspective