Give Feedback a Clear Path: Observation, Impact, Next Step

Feedback can be hard to use when the listener has to guess what happened, why it matters or what to do next. A simple structure can make the message easier to follow:

Observation: Describe a specific moment, without guessing at intent.
Impact: Explain what it changed or made harder.
Next step: Make a clear request, then leave room for the other person’s view.

For example: “In yesterday’s handoff, the update didn’t include the open questions. I wasn’t sure what still needed a decision. Could you add those to the next handoff? Is there context I’m missing?”

The final question matters: it invites clarification rather than treating one perspective as the whole story. Before the conversation, consider what the other person needs to understand and what action would help. Afterward, check that you agree on the next step—not necessarily on every interpretation.