20 Essential Phrases to Improve Feedback Skills in the Workplace

Giving feedback is one of the most important communication skills in the workplace. You need this skill as a manager reviewing performance, a colleague sharing suggestions, or a team member responding to an idea.

How you give feedback makes a big difference. It is not just what you say, but how you say it that matters. Here are 20 useful phrases to help you give feedback clearly, politely, and professionally.

1. I really liked how you…

Use this to start on a positive note.

Example: I really liked how you explained the data so clearly in your presentation.

2. One thing that worked really well was…

Encourages strengths-based feedback.

Example: One thing that worked really well was your opening story. It caught everyone’s attention.

3. You did a great job with…

A simple and encouraging way to recognize effort.

Example: You did a great job with the client summary — it was detailed and accurate.

4. You might want to consider…

A polite way to suggest improvement.

Example: You might want to consider adding more visuals to your slides next time.

5. Have you thought about…?

Encourages reflection rather than criticism.

Example: Have you thought about simplifying the introduction?

6. One suggestion I have is…

Keeps feedback constructive and focused.

Example: One suggestion I have is to shorten the conclusion a little.

7. What if we tried…?

Makes feedback collaborative.

Example: What if we tried presenting the results in a more visual format?

8. You handled that really well.

Positive reinforcement builds confidence.

Example: You handled that client’s question really well — calm and professional.

9. I think you could improve by…

A direct but polite way to point out growth areas.

Example: I think you could improve by giving more real-life examples.

10. I noticed that…

Neutral and observation-based, not judgmental.

Example: I noticed that the slides were a bit text-heavy.

11. It might help to…

Suggests a solution gently.

Example: It might help to summarize the main point at the end.

12. Next time, you could try…

Keeps the focus on the future.

Example: Next time, you could try using fewer bullet points.

13. I appreciate how you…

Expresses gratitude while giving feedback.

Example: I appreciate how you took everyone’s ideas into account.

14. I can see you’ve put a lot of effort into…

Recognizes effort even if results need improvement.

Example: I can see you’ve put a lot of effort into researching this topic.

15. You might want to focus more on…

Gently redirects attention to a priority area.

Example: You might want to focus more on time management during your presentation.

16. That part was especially effective because…

Reinforces what worked well.

Example: That part was especially effective because it made the data relatable.

17. You could strengthen this by…

Encourages development with a positive tone.

Example: You could strengthen this by adding more supporting evidence.

18. I’d encourage you to…

Sounds supportive and motivating.

Example: I’d encourage you to keep working on your storytelling skills.

19. Let’s look at how we can improve…

Emphasizes teamwork and shared growth.

Example: Let’s look at how we can improve the flow of the report.

20. Overall, great job!

Always end on a positive note.

Example: Overall, great job — your confidence really came through.

Balance praise and suggestions. People listen better when they feel appreciated.

Be specific. Instead of saying “good job,” explain what was good.

Focus on behavior, not personality. Say “the report could be clearer,” not “you’re unclear.”

End with encouragement. Motivation makes feedback meaningful.