When feedback is delivered by expressing disappointment and pointing out shortcomings, this approach is generally considered:

• A. good; no public critique
• B. poor; employee should be asked why the job was poor
• C. poor; some favorable comment should accompany
• D. good; the employee knows where he stands and might resign

Answer: (C)

How you frame feedback matters; it should be constructive and balanced. Expressing disappointment and dwelling on shortcomings tends to shut down openness—people become defensive, lose trust, and may disengage rather than engage with a path to improvement. In a productive feedback conversation, the message is clearer when you describe specific behaviors, explain the impact, and offer concrete steps for next time. Pairing the critique with some favorable comment signals that you recognize strengths and that the critique targets performance, not the person. This balance helps the employee hear the issues, stay motivated, and feel supported to improve. That’s why including a favorable remark alongside the critique is considered the better approach.