4 FEEDBACK TIPS TO DRIVE ETHICAL BEHAVIOR

Research and insights from the Notre Dame Deloitte Center for Ethical Leadership

Each time you give feedback, you send a message about success and ethics. It’s an opportunity to show employees that how they get results is just as important as the results themselves.

TIP 1
PRAISE EFFORTS, NOT ABILITIES

Those who are praised for their innate qualities (“You’re a natural!”) rather than their efforts (“You put a lot of great work into this!”) are more likely to lie or cheat to hide mistakes.

TIP 2
REMOVE THE STIGMA AROUND FAILURE

Employees who are terrified of failing are most likely to compromise their morals to avoid it. Reframe failure as a growth opportunity.

TIP 3
COACH BEFORE YOU MANAGE

Don’t wait for annual reviews. Providing ongoing, personalized feedback shows that you’re committed to your followers’ development, not just to hitting financial targets.

TIP 4
TRIGGER INTRINSIC MOTIVATION

Competition produces results, but too much competition can be destructive. Encourage workers to be motivated by their own growth, not others’ failures.

For more science-based strategies for ethical leadership, visit ethicalleadership.nd.edu.