I had the joy of going to Jazz Fest in New Orleans this past weekend. There were a range of performers from gospel groups to pop artists like Billy Joel and Dave Matthews Band to jazz musicians Kermit Ruffins, Allen Toussaint and Joshua Redman.
In each performance at various times during a song, a different musician on stage would take the lead. After each spotlighted segment the audience would applaud and acknowledge that performer’s talents. The audience did not wait until the end of the song to give feedback and express appreciation.
As leaders we can learn from this interaction. So often we wait until the end of a project to give acknowledgement. Many of us only give performance appraisals at the formally appointed annual review time, if then. We miss opportunities throughout the year or during the scope of an assignment to share feedback.
Giving ongoing feedback has at least two benefits. It can inspire and provide momentum for even greater outcomes. It can also generate course correction if necessary before a project results in disappointment.
Our goal is to work in concert with others and to bring out their best. Communicating regularly will more likely ensure a strong performance.