Anonymous Feedback: What Should a Leader Do?

Abstract

Leaders are required to evaluate and provide feedback to those they lead. This often involves giving feedback on direct observations, but at times can result from feedback brought to them via other pathways. When a leader is given feedback from a subordinate about another subordinate, they must decide how to best proceed. Often they must collect more data in order to make an informed decision. Followers continuously observe how leaders handle feedback from subordinates, which will directly impact mission success and unit morale. The following case highlights one junior officer's challenge related to anonymous feedback she received.