Navigating Performance Feedback: Making Sense of Mixed Messages, by Jonathan H. Westover PhD

Abstract: This article discusses strategies for productively interpreting mixed or conflicting performance feedback. It acknowledges that while performance reviews aim to provide career development guidance, communicating feedback effectively is challenging and inconsistencies can occur due to factors like insufficient manager training, biases, lack of objective metrics, and differing priorities between management levels. The article recommends keeping an open yet analytical mindset when receiving mixed signals and seeking to understand potential causes through lenses from organizational behavior research like social influence biases, competing agendas, performance dimension overloads, and rater errors. It suggests tactics for constructively addressing inconsistencies with leadership like requesting a joint discussion, focusing on mutual goals, acknowledging multiple perspectives, problem-solving over blaming, and following up with agreed upon action items. Real-world industry examples demonstrate how clarifying expectations, strengthening review practices, and emphasizing shared priorities can turn mixed feedback into a learning opportunity rather than a roadblock.