What do you do if event planners are struggling with giving or receiving feedback?

Clearly communicate expectations for giving and receiving feedback within the team. Define the purpose of feedback, the criteria for constructive feedback, and the process for delivering feedback effectively. Establish guidelines for both positive and constructive feedback to ensure clarity and consistency.

In our event planning team, there was a noticeable lack of openness when it came to giving and receiving feedback. This hindered our ability to address issues effectively and improve as a team. To tackle this, we implemented a simple yet powerful strategy: regular check-ins. During these check-ins, team members were encouraged to share their thoughts, concerns, and feedback in a safe and supportive environment. We created a culture where honesty and transparency were valued, and everyone felt comfortable expressing their opinions. As a result, team members started opening up more, sharing both positive feedback and areas for improvement.

This is 100% based on corporate culture and flows from the top down. Develop a full after action report for each and every event. Make this consistent and a requirement so that it becomes a habit for each event and each employee. As feedback becomes part of the culture, it becomes easier and more standard for everyone to understand and participate in across the company.

In our event planning team, we noticed that feedback often lacked specificity, making it challenging to understand and act upon. To address this, we implemented a simple yet effective practice: the "feedback sandwich." Instead of providing general feedback, team members were encouraged to be specific about what they appreciated, what needed improvement, and suggestions for moving forward. For example, instead of saying, "Your presentation was good," they would say, "I liked how you engaged the audience during your presentation. However, I noticed that you spoke too quickly at times, which made it difficult to follow. Perhaps slowing down your pace would help the audience better understand your points."

I know from personal experience. In event planning, feedback is pure gold! Without it, how would we know if we're heading in the right direction? When you share your thoughts, be direct and back them up with supporting arguments. And when you receive feedback, take it seriously. Sometimes, it's the missing piece that helps everything fall into place and turn out just right ;)

Incorporating feedback options into the event program itself. On-site surveys, set up iPad stations for guests to receive live feedback, use social networks or event app/event landing page but usually, you will need to have a giveaway ready - either a promotion from event sponsors or a discount voucher (maybe for the next event).