Top 10 Things to Consider for a Successful 360 Feedback Program
By Karen Jackson
Purpose, Principles, and Practices:
- What’s your main purpose for introducing 360-degree feedback?
- How will the 360 affect the organization overall?
- Who will participate and why?
- Will it be voluntary or mandatory?
- Will the information form part of the performance management process?
- How often will you run the 360?
Opportunities
- What opportunities does 360 open up for individuals, teams, and your organization?
- What help is available so that you don’t reinvent the wheel?
Barriers
- What potential barriers exist and what are the best strategies for overcoming them?
System and Software
- Will you outsource?
- How will you ensure the security and robustness of the system?
- Do you need the data to be processed and stored in Canada?
- Will the survey be accessible via multiple devices?
Questionnaire and Ratings:
- Will you use a pre-designed questionnaire or will you develop your own with the help of an experienced resource?
- Do you need multiple questionnaires for different groups or people?
- If you develop your own questionnaire, how will you ensure its validity?
- How many questions are ideal?
- What type of rating scale will you use and why does it matter?
Feedback Receivers:
- What’s the best way to prepare participants?
- What support will you provide to participants after they receive their reports?
- Will feedback receivers get to choose their own feedback providers?
Feedback Providers:
- What’s an ideal number of feedback providers?
- What categories do you need and will you include external clients?
- How do you ensure the feedback is truthful and thorough?
- How is the anonymity of feedback providers protected?
The 360 Report and Data:
- Who will see the final feedback report and data?
- What’s the ideal way to report the data for maximum impact?
Success
- How will you measure the effectiveness of the program?
Budget
- What’s the most cost effective process for your needs?
Explore the choices available to find a 360 feedback program that’s right for you. Shoot us a note, or call us, to let us help you answer your 360 degree questions.
