Séverine Barbette (Highlight Consulting) and Christophe Callens (Quintet Luxembourg). Photo: Highlight Consulting

Séverine Barbette (Highlight Consulting) and Christophe Callens (Quintet Luxembourg). Photo: Highlight Consulting

Christophe Callens, head of human resources at Quintet Luxembourg, and Séverine Barbette, founder of Highlight Consulting, share their vision of feedback as a driver for collaboration, trust and performance.

Why did you recently decide to strengthen the feedback culture in your organisation?

Christophe Callens: It’s an essential lever for optimising performance. But you can’t impose it overnight, you must build it up gradually, with a clear intention from the outset. We wanted to strengthen the connection, unite around a common mission and values, while setting clear and understandable objectives. At , we recently reworked these fundamentals to create real alignment within our teams.

It was clear to us that feedback was at the heart of this dynamic. Especially if it is regular, constructive and delivered in a spirit of neutrality and benevolence. We encourage our line managers to set aside time for these exchanges throughout the year.

Feedback also strengthens collaboration, and the working environment becomes more motivating. There’s more exchange and cohesion.

: Absolutely. On an individual level, regular feedback helps employees to take stock of their performance, identify areas for improvement and put in place personalised development plans.

At an organisational level, feedback supports open communication, establishes a climate of trust and strengthens the company’s agility.

What role do line managers play in promoting such a culture?

Christophe Callens: Line managers are key success factors. On the front line, they lay the foundations for open dialogue and create an environment conducive to exchange. Their role is crucial in providing regular feedback, valuing contributions and resolving problems quickly.

Séverine Barbette: However, many managers are reluctant to give feedback for a few reasons: they don’t know how to go about it, they’re afraid of being misunderstood or hurting their staff’s feelings, or they simply lack the time and concrete elements to structure their feedback.

This is precisely where our project comes in. We remove these obstacles by providing them with practical tools and giving them “permission” to dare. We support them in several areas: structuring their feedback, managing their emotions, clarifying their intentions and preparing their key messages with an aligned posture. This approach enables them to feel confident and to provide relevant and constructive feedback. Trained and supported, they become key players in this transformation.

If you want to find out more about the pillars of feedback and how to incorporate them into your practices; read full article here: 

This promotional article was written by Highlight Consulting as part of the company’s membership with the Paperjam Club. If you wish to become a member of the Club, contact us at .