Using a training intervention to improve the feedback environment

Abstract

This chapter discusses a training intervention designed to improve the supervisor feedback environment. The supervisor feedback environment refers to the extent to which supervisors cultivate an environment that supports and promotes the provision and use of job performance feedback (Steelman et al., Educational and psychological measurement 64:165-184, 2004). A body of literature suggests that a favorable supervisor feedback environment is related to employee attitudes and behaviors, job performance, and well-being. However, few studies examine antecedents to a favorable feedback environment. In this chapter we discuss a supervisor training program, designed based on theories of effective training (Salas et al., Psychological science in the public interest 13:74-101, 2012). Outcomes of the supervisor training program included improved perceptions of the feedback environment, particularly for those supervisors who were initially rated ashaving a more unfavorable feedback environment, and increased subordinate feedback-seeking frequency.