Sugarcoating Ain't Sweet

Hey Ya’ll

Big thanks to everyone who joined the workshop on February 8th—I loved the energy and the feedback! Speaking of feedback, have you ever wondered why I focus so much on it? Because feedback shapes careers—and too often, it’s where workplace inequities begin. A report from the World Economic Forum noted that women are more than 20% less likely than men to receive difficult feedback that helps improve their performance. If we want real growth for everyone, we need to get it right. Let’s dive in. ⬇️

RESOURCE: 

Women Get “Nicer” Feedback — and It Holds Them Back

https://hbr.org/2023/01/women-get-nicer-feedback-and-it-holds-them-back

REVELATION: 

Ever noticed how feedback can sometimes be a bit too... sweet? Turns out that sugarcoating might be more sour than we think, especially for women in the workplace. Women often receive kinder, less critical feedback compared to their male counterparts. While this might sound positive, it can actually hinder professional growth.

Why It Matters:

• Hiding Growth Areas – Vague praise = missed skill development.

• Slowing Career Progress – Without direct feedback, advancement is harder.

• Reinforcing Bias – Women are often “protected” from tough critiques, limiting their potential.

The fix? Honest, constructive, and actionable feedback for all people. Let’s ditch the sugarcoating and empower growth.

REVELATION: 

Ask yourself the following questions: 

1. Are you ready to receive constructive feedback without getting defensive and shutting down? If yes, why? If not, why?

2. When was the last time you gave someone really honest, constructive, and actionable feedback? How did it go? What could you have done better?