18 Great Constructive Feedback Examples For Your Manager

Giving feedback to your manager isn’t easy. That is why we put together this updated list of constructive feedback examples for managers. This list not only gives you examples and tips on constructive criticism for managers but also covers all the different nuances of giving feedback to your manager.

Before we get to all the examples of constructive feedback to managers, here is a quick question: What if you could have an AI feedback tool right under your fingertips at all times?

Generate Manager Feedback with AI

If you don't want to scroll all the way down to go through the feedback examples in this article, we built a feedback generator that lets you generate the perfect piece of constructive feedback for your manager.

First select your role in relation to this manager:

• Are you a direct report giving feedback to your manager?
• Are you giving feedback to a peer who is a manager?
• Is this a skip-level feedback for another manager?

Then select the area you want to generate constructive feedback examples on and you are good to go!

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18 Constructive Manager Feedback Examples

1. Constructive Feedback to Manager on Communication Skills:

When considering what to tell your manager to improve on, communication skills are often at the top of the list.

A managers ability to communicate effectively is essential for team cohesion as well as success in projects. That is why constructive feedback to manager on their communication skills should always be welcome.

Manager feedback examples on this area could include suggestions on having more one-on-ones with direct reports as well as offering more clear and regular updates on project statuses. Here is an example of what to tell your manager to improve on:

• “Your communication during team meetings is clear, but it would be helpful if you could provide more regular updates on project statuses to keep everyone aligned.”

2. Manager Feedback Example on Leadership Style:

One of the most obvious areas where a manager can receive feedback. Providing constructive feedback to a manager on their leadership can help them empower their team more effectively.

Feedback for a manager might include encouragement to delegate responsibilities to foster skill development. Constructive criticism for managers in this area helps them understand how their leadership can evolve to better support their team.

• “Your leadership is inspiring. To further empower the team, consider delegating more responsibilities to help us grow and develop our skills.”

3. Constructive Criticism for Manager about their Feedback Skills

Feedback about feedback? This list is getting really meta and it’s only the third entry! Giving feedback properly is an important strength for a manager to have.

A manager who is regularly overly critical of their team can damage that team’s morale and result in employee burnout. A manager who doesn’t give clear and consistent feedback can stifle development. So here is an example off constructive criticism for managers about their feedback skills.

• “I’ve noticed that feedback sessions can sometimes feel overly critical. It might be more effective to focus on constructive criticism, highlighting both what was done well and what can be improved.”

4. Manager Feedback Example on Performance Management:

Effective performance management requires ongoing feedback and support. Constructive feedback for a manager on their performance management practices might suggest more frequent, informal check-ins to reduce stress during formal reviews.

So when you are writing a review for your manager, you could focus on the benefits of continuous performance discussions to maintain a motivated and high-performing team.

• “Your feedback during reviews is very detailed. Incorporating more frequent, informal check-ins could keep performance discussions ongoing and less stressful.”

5. Example of Constructive Feedback to Manager on Professional Development:

Supporting professional development is key to employee growth and retention. Feedback to give your manager can include suggestions for setting up a mentorship program to foster further development. Constructive feedback to managers on creating opportunities for growth helps build a more skilled and satisfied team.

• “I value the opportunities for growth you’ve provided. It might be beneficial to set up a mentorship program to foster further development.”

4. Manager Feedback Example About Team Dynamics:

Building teams with strong dynamics is an essential part of ensuring a workforce that collaborates seamlessly. When offering constructive feedback to your manager on this issue, coming up with suggestions such as teambuilding activities and cross-functional teams is always a plus!

• “The team could benefit from more collaborative projects. Organizing team-building activities might enhance our teamwork and communication.”

5. Constructive Feedback Example on Flexibility:

In a constantly changing work environment, flexibility and adaptability are vital. Feedback to give your manager might include involving the team in decision-making during changes to improve alignment and buy-in. Constructive feedback for your boss can focus on enhancing team participation in adaptive processes.

• “Your flexibility in handling changes is appreciated. Including the team in decision-making during these changes could improve overall alignment and buy-in.”

6. Feedback to Manager Example About Accountability:

Ensuring accountability in the workplace is an absolute necessity for any manager. That being said, the process of creating a culture of accountability in the workplace is a complex and nuanced procedure. That is why input from employees can be quite beneficial. So here is an example of constructive criticism for managers on this very topic:

• “It’s great that you hold us accountable for our tasks. Establishing a clearer process for tracking responsibilities might ensure nothing falls through the cracks.”

7. Constructive Feedback Example About Innovation:

Encouraging innovation and creativity can be the driving force behind a team’s success. So if you have any ideas or feedback to offer to your manager on how you can foster creativity and innovation among the team, then you shouldn’t hesitate to share it with your manager. So here is a constructive feedback example to help you!.

• “I appreciate your support for new ideas. Creating a structured platform for sharing innovative thoughts could encourage more creativity within the team.”

8. Manager Feedback About Being Empathetic:

Empathetic leaders are better equipped to recognize and address the needs and concerns of their team members, leading to increased morale, productivity, and overall job satisfaction. Constructive feedback on empathy encourages managers to develop this essential skill, ultimately benefiting both individual employees and the organization as a whole.

• “When giving feedback, considering the perspective and feelings of team members can make a big difference. A more empathetic approach might help in building trust and openness.”

9. Example of Feedback to Manager on Conflict Resolution:

Conflict resolution is a skill that every manager should have in their bag of tricks. After all the modern workplace is an environment that is very susceptible to sudden conflicts. Any feedback you offer your manager in this regard should be more than welcome.

• “You handle conflicts with professionalism. Training the team on conflict resolution techniques could empower us to resolve issues independently.”

10. Manager Feedback Example on Work-life Balance

Promoting work-life balance is essential for employee well-being. As the boundaries between office and personal hours keep blending together, especially for remote employees, giving your manager constructive feedback on any issues regarding work-life balance in the organization can actually make your life a lot easier.

• “Your focus on work-life balance is commendable. That being said I have noticed some people feeling the need to take time out of their personal schedule in order to complete weekly tasks. Perhaps we could make some adjustments on how we distribute workload.”

11. Feedback to Manager about Transparency:

Transparency builds trust within the team. Constructive feedback to managers on transparency can focus on more proactive communication about changes and updates. Giving constructive feedback to your manager on transparency can cause some very positive changes in company culture and policies.

• “Your openness is appreciated. More proactive communication about changes and updates could prevent potential confusion among the team.”

12. Constructive Feedback Example on Goal Setting:

Nothing unites a team and drives performance like goals that have been set properly. Whether you are going for SMART goals, testing out OKRs, or using a cascading goals structure, goal clarity results in alignment organization-wide.

That is why it is key to offer your manager constructive feedback on this issue if there are any lapses.. Constructive feedback for your boss on their goal-setting methodology can improve goal alignment and team motivation.

• “Setting clear goals has been helpful. Involving the team in the goal-setting process might enhance commitment and alignment.”

13. Example of Manager Feedback on Recognition and Appreciation:

Consistent employee recognition is one of the most important employee engagement strategies in today’s landscape. That is why if you are feeling like you are not receiving the praise or appreciation you deserve, or that your organization could benefit from an employee rewards program, you should be comfortable in relaying this constructive feedback to your manager.

• “Your recognition of our work is motivating. Instituting a formal recognition program could further boost morale and motivation.”

14. Manager Feedback Example on Decision-Making Skills:

Effective decision-making is a must-have competency for any leader. Feedback to a manager on this issue could include incorporating diverse perspectives in the decision-making process. Constructive criticism for managers on their decision-making skills can lead to more well-rounded outcomes.

• “Your decision-making is decisive. Including diverse perspectives in the decision-making process might lead to more well-rounded outcomes.”

15. Constructive Feedback for Managers on Time Management:

Good time management is essential for productivity. When giving constructive feedback to your manager, you might want to include topics such as effective time management strategies, and being more open to communication so the team is more in sync.

• “You manage your time well. Sharing your time management strategies with the team could improve our overall productivity.”

16. Manager Feedback Example on Delegation:

Effective delegation supports team growth. Delegating tasks can also reduce burnout in managers too! Effective delegation doesn’t just remove the workload off the back of the manager. It also creates a culture of empowerment where direct reports are trusted!

• “Delegating tasks effectively helps us grow. Providing more feedback on our performance could help us improve further.”

17. Feedback to Manager Example on Following Up:

While many leaders often offer feedback to their employees, following up on that feedback isn’t as common a practice. If your manager isn’t following up on the feedback they’ve offered, then it is time for you to offer some constructive feedback on this very issue.

• “Following up on feedback given would help ensure that the necessary improvements are being made. It would also show that you are invested in our development.”

18. Constructive Feedback on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Practices

Promoting diversity, equity, and, inclusion is crucial for a respectful workplace. Especially in today’s climate where people are trying to disregard the E in DEI, this topic is more important than ever. Constructive feedback to managers might be centered around regular training on inclusivity. Feedback for a manager in this area can enhance understanding and respect for different perspectives within the team.

• “Your efforts in promoting diversity are commendable. Regular training on inclusivity could enhance our team’s understanding and respect for different perspectives.”

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What to be careful about when giving feedback to your manager?

Providing improvement feedback for manager performance requires tact and preparation. Here's how to approach the conversation thoughtfully.

Timing and Setting

• Schedule a private meeting rather than catching them off-guard
• Avoid raising issues in front of others
• Choose a time when neither of you is rushed

Tone and Approach

• Focus on positive change, not venting frustrations
• Use "I" statements instead of accusations
• Frame observations as suggestions, not complaints
• Example: Say "Our meetings running over makes it hard to finish afternoon tasks" instead of "You always prolong meetings"

Be Specific and Solution-Oriented

• Bring concrete examples, not vague criticisms
• Offer potential solutions alongside the problem
• Show you're invested in improvement, not just complaining

Consider Context

• Know your company culture and hierarchy norms
• Gauge your manager's openness to feedback
• Test the waters by asking if they welcome team improvement ideas

Self-Reflect First

• Ask yourself what you could have done differently
• Consider if you're missing any context
• Approach the conversation as collaborative, not confrontational

Why is it important to give feedback to your manager?

Manager improvement feedback is essential for building healthy teams. When employees speak up, everyone benefits. Here are a few examples:

• Builds open communication and trust
• Shows the company values continuous growth
• Helps leaders understand their impact on team dynamics
• Highlights what's working and what isn't
• Empowers employees to be heard

Examples of what to tell your manager to improve on

Not sure what to say when your boss asks for feedback? These ready-to-use phrases can help you communicate clearly and professionally.

• Communication: "More timely feedback would help us avoid last-minute adjustments."
• Recognition: "Celebrating individual contributions would motivate the team."
• Support: "More one-on-ones would help everyone feel supported."
• Clarity: "Clearer deadlines tied to specific goals would help us focus."
• Autonomy: "More independence would help us grow and take ownership."

How do you write negative feedback for a manager?

Whether you're completing a 360 feedback to manager review or having a direct conversation, addressing concerns requires diplomacy. Here's how to be honest without burning bridges.

• Be frank but diplomatic
• Focus on work impact, not personal criticism
• Use specific examples instead of generalizations
• Say "Project deadlines are often unclear, causing confusion" instead of "You're disorganized"
• Pair criticism with constructive suggestions
• Acknowledge positives before addressing issues
• Keep a professional tone
• Focus on changeable behaviors, not personality traits

What is good constructive feedback?

Understanding the areas of improvement for manager feedback helps you deliver input that actually drives change. Good feedback is more than criticism—it's a tool for growth.

• Specific: Clear examples of what worked or needs improvement
• Action-oriented: Focused on behaviors and outcomes
• Timely: Given close to the event
• Respectful: Delivered with empathy
• Balanced: Uses the "sandwich" method (positive → issue → encouragement)
• Forward-looking: Suggests improvements rather than dwelling on mistakes
• Two-way: Leaves room for dialogue and collaboration

What are some examples of positive feedback for managers?

Feedback is also about recognizing what's working well. These examples show how to acknowledge your manager's strengths.

Presentation Skills

• "Your presentation was fantastic—you made complex information clear and easy to follow."

Work Ethic

• "I appreciate your dedication to this project. Your attention to detail and commitment to deadlines hasn't gone unnoticed."

Problem-Solving

• "You handled that difficult customer complaint with professionalism. Your calm approach and solution-focused mindset were impressive."

Growth and Improvement

• "The improvements you've made over the past few months are noticeable. Your increased efficiency has been appreciated by the whole team."

Team Support

• "Your positive attitude and willingness to help others make you a real asset. Thank you for contributing to our team's success."

Make Use Of Feedback Software

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In one of our constructive feedback examples above, we talked about how the way you give feedback is just as important as the content of your feedback. The “How?” is equally important as the “What?” when we’re talking about constructive feedback examples in the workplace.

Your feedback needs to be to the point, accessible, kept track of, and most importantly, in the flow of work! This is where employee 360 feedback software can make a big difference. In fact, we listed some of the top employee feedback software in a list previously!

That being said if you come from an organization that uses Microsoft Teams on a daily basis, and your search for constructive feedback examples has brought you right here, then there is one incredible employee feedback tool for Microsoft Teams that you absolutely need to check out: Teamflect

Teamflect

Teamflect is an all-in-one performance management software with an absolute unit of an employee feedback module. Being capable of conducting anything from pulse surveys to 360-feedback- to automated review cycles, one of Teamflect’s most unique selling points comes with its complete Microsoft Teams integration. If your company is using Microsoft Teams, Outlook, Notes, or other MS Office tools, then Teamflect is the way to go.

Teamflect is designed with continuous feedback at heart, making the exchange of feedback as easy as a single click. This simplicity and ease of use ensure that organizations using Teamflect can easily implement a culture of constant feedback.

Some key features include but aren’t limited to:

• Customizable feedback template library
• Employee recognition
• OKR management
• Employee engagement surveys
• Customizable performance review templates
• Power BI reports for HR Analytics

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Exchange feedback seamlessly inside Microsoft Teams

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How To Use Feedback Software Inside Microsoft Teams?

We can’t go on and on about the benefits of using feedback software without showing you just how the whole feedback process works inside Microsoft Teams.

So in this section, we will be going over how you can use the best 360-degree feedback software for Microsoft Teams to exchange feedback.

Step 1: Head over to Teamflect’s Feedback Module

Teamflect users can simply access feedback templates inside Teams chat, Teamflect’s “Feedback” module functions as a hub where you can access and work on all the feedback you’ve received.

By simply clicking the “New Feedback” option, you can easily start asking for or giving out quality feedback. This hub is also where you can send reminders on previous feedback requests, conduct self-assessments, and so much more!

Step 2: Select a feedback template

Teamflect has an extensive library of customizable feedback templates. You can either pick an ad-hoc feedback template and use it as it is, create a feedback template of your own with options for various feedback question types, or customize an existing template to fit your needs!

Once you’ve chosen your template, you can start giving feedback right then and there!

Optional Step: 360-Degree Feedback

While 360-degree feedback is always a great option it is often seen as hard to practice since it has a lot of moving parts.

Teamflect Simplifies the whole process with 360-degree feedback features that let users request feedback on behalf of themselves or others from direct reports, superiors, peers, or external parties.

Optional Step: Summarize feedback with AI

If you’ve received more feedback you can handle during a certain period, or if you simply want the cliff notes version of some of your strengths and weaknesses, you can simply click the button shown below to summarize your feedback using Chat GPT.

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Giving Constructive Feedback to Your Manager

How often should you give constructive feedback to your manager?

There's no fixed rule, but regular, timely feedback is more effective than saving everything for annual reviews. Consider sharing feedback:

• Shortly after a specific event or situation
• During scheduled check-ins or performance conversations
• When patterns emerge that affect your work or the team
• Quarterly, as part of ongoing professional dialogue

The key is consistency without overwhelming—feedback should feel natural, not forced.

Is it okay to give your manager feedback during a 1:1 meeting?

Yes—1:1 meetings are often the ideal setting. They offer privacy, dedicated time, and a built-in opportunity for open conversation. To make the most of it:

• Let your manager know you'd like to discuss something beforehand
• Choose a 1:1 when neither of you is rushed or stressed
• Frame it as a collaborative discussion, not a confrontation

If the topic is particularly sensitive, you might request a separate meeting so it gets the attention it deserves.

How can you give feedback to a manager who reacts defensively?

Defensive reactions can be discouraging, but there are ways to navigate them:

• Lead with appreciation or shared goals before raising concerns
• Use "I" statements to focus on your experience, not their behavior
• Keep your tone calm and non-accusatory
• Give them time to process—don't expect immediate agreement
• Follow up later if needed, once emotions have settled

If defensiveness is a recurring issue, consider using anonymous channels like surveys or HR feedback tools.

What's the best way to document feedback you've given to your manager?

Keeping a record protects you and helps track patterns over time. Best practices include:

• Write a brief summary after the conversation (date, topic, key points)
• Note any agreements or next steps discussed
• Save relevant emails or messages for context
• Store documentation somewhere private and secure

This isn't about building a case—it's about maintaining clarity and accountability for both sides.

Should you give constructive feedback to your manager anonymously?

It depends on the situation and your workplace culture. Anonymous feedback can be useful when:

• You fear retaliation or a damaged relationship
• The issue is sensitive or involves serious concerns
• Your company offers formal anonymous channels (surveys, 360 reviews, HR tools)

However, direct feedback is often more impactful and allows for real dialogue. If you feel safe doing so, a face-to-face conversation typically leads to faster, more meaningful change.

Closing Words

If you end up following the constructive feedback examples for your manager that we highlighted in this blog post, you might be surprised at the positive impact it has on your relationship with your manager. That being said, each manager is different and we can’t act like the world of performance management is full of sunshine and rainbows, even though we might very much want it to be!

Sometimes, no matter how effectively you give your boss feedback about something, there is a chance they won’t take it well. Hey. That is on them. As long as you keep the culture of continuous feedback alive in your workplace, then you have nothing to worry about.

That, however, might be easier said than done. Exchanging feedback is difficult if you’re working in a remote setting. There are no simple taps on the shoulder or quick chats over coffee. This is where remote feedback tools come into play. There are many feedback models you can try out.

If you are giving feedback in Microsoft Teams, we just have to remind you that Teamflect is always the best tool for feedback in the Teams ecosystem, thanks to all the awesome employee feedback templates it provides users with!