You can’t improve without specifics.

Most of us think about feedback as negative: being told by our manager that we’ve fallen short of a goal, or that our work processes need work, or that a behavior needs to change. And yes, negative feedback delivered thoughtfully and constructively, is critical to helping us make progress.

Let’s not overlook the importance of receiving positive feedback. When we get information about what we’re doing well — whether it’s achieving (or even exceeding our goals) or demonstrating helpful behaviors that have a favorably impact on other people and on the business — we are more likely to feel appreciated, valued, and encouraged to keep doing what’s working.