This is a simple, straightforward worksheet that allows people to organize their messages and results in a way that is easy to digest. First, they are asked to think about the practices that are more important and less important to the effective performance of their jobs. Some feedback reports provide this information. In other cases, people must make the best determination they can, based on their understanding of their jobs and the environment in which they work. This first assessment of importance provides the context for setting priorities, once development needs have been identified.

Next, people are asked to review their data and any notes they may have made to identify apparent strengths and weaknesses. Although recipients can use whatever level of detail they choose, we find it is more helpful to indicate specific behavior items rather than just to note a general category. To refer to a strength or weakness as “I encourage frank and open discussion of a disagreement” rather than just “team building” is more likely to lead to action.

In addition to identifying strengths and weaknesses, we also ask people to indicate areas that are in need of further clarification, because they are bound to have questions about their data. This section of the consolidation worksheet will help prepare recipients for a constructive and focused discussion with the people who gave them their feedback.