The Warm Up Conversation saves time

Many leaders wait until there is a problem before they talk about feedback.

The Warm Up Conversation is one of the smartest parts of the Feedback Fitness Framework because it happens before a performance issue is in the room. It is the conversation about feedback before you offer any feedback. It helps leaders talk about expectations, preferences, past experiences, intentions and what helps the other person feel safe enough to stay open.

Feedback is not only heard through the ears. It is heard through the nervous system.

In Harvard Business Review’s March 3, 2026, article “When Feedback Crosses the Line,” the researchers found that over 78% of respondents described feedback so hurtful they remembered it vividly, sometimes years later. Feelings of humiliation, shaken confidence and loss of trust stayed with them.

In other words, people do not walk into feedback conversations as blank slates. They often bring their feedback history with them.

The Warm Up conversation helps reduce that emotional charge. The process includes three TIPs: Tailored, Intention and Permission. The goal is not to make feedback fluffy. The goal is to make it safer, clearer and more useful.

Then, when you are ready to offer feedback in the moment, I recommend using a pre-frame. A simple sentence such as, “Is it okay if I share something I noticed about…because…?” This promotes choice and respect.

Leaders sometimes think this sounds like extra work. Yet who has time for the fallout of a feedback conversation that goes pear-shaped? Complaints, damaged trust, resignations and repair work all take far more time than a one-hour Warm Up conversation where you are building connection and trust.

The Warm Up conversation is not a waste of time. It is preparation for a better relationship.

You might like to ask yourself:

Have I set my team up for useful feedback?
Or am I expecting people to stay calm in conversations I have not prepared them for?

You can become Feedback Fit. And often, that transformation starts long before the feedback itself.

If you’re ready to become Feedback Fit, Book a 30-minute complimentary discussion with Sue and discover how to create a feedback-rich culture that keeps your best people growing and thriving.

P.S. Forward this to a leader who could benefit from this weekly update. It’s an easy way to support their leadership growth and help more teams become Feedback Fit.