How much information do supervisors need?
Supervisors want to supervise. They’re also used to seeing confidential information about their staff. It’s natural to expect the supervisor of a 360-degree feedback recipient to request a copy of the feedback report. But a 360 feedback report is different from other information a supervisor receives for at least two reasons: 1. Subjectivity. If respondents know a supervisor will see detailed feedback, they will be tempted to be less than honest. Ratings and comments may be more positive if the recipient is a close friend; or they may be more negative if the recipient is disliked. 2. Possible misuse. Since personnel decisions are difficult, there may be a tendency to use 360 feedback to trigger the decision. The safe path is to disconnect feedback from raises, bonuses, promotions, etc., and use it for developmental purposes only. Provide enough information to help the supervisor perform the role of coach The best use of 360 feedback is to inform individual development planning. To rein
