Key to this is 'Attached Detachment'. Attach to the employee so that you mean good to him but detach yourself from feedback i.e. give it like a robot. Your emotions will never come out but feedback is conveyed. Is it easy? No. That's why it's an art in management.

Providing Tough feedback ensuring empathy is not easy, few points to be considered are: 1. Prepare in advance (ensuring to be considerate to the person we will be giving feedback to). Ensure it’s a data driven feedback and not perception driven neither comsidering personal aspects. 2. Stay calm and composed and human. Being human reflects empathy. Avoid to reflect the position. 3. Share the tough feedback along with providing commitment to provide all necessary assistance or any help/support that is needed. This reflects positivity. 4. Do regular checkins to ensure the person feels better and it’s not taken personally. 5. Have an ecosystem set to avoid any harsh behaviour towards the person. Ex: everything is normal.

To manage emotions while giving tough feedback, I would prepare thoroughly by focusing on facts and desired outcomes. I would practice what somenone say to ensure clarity and avoid emotional outbursts. I would use a calm, neutral tone and focus on behaviors, not personalities, to prevent defensiveness. I would take deep breaths to stay composed and pause if emotions rise. I would maintain empathy by acknowledging the recipient’s perspective while staying firm on key points. I would frame feedback constructively, highlighting areas for improvement and offering support. Post-feedback, I would reflect on my delivery to refine my approach. I believe controlling emotions ensures feedback is effective, respectful, and fosters positive change.