“If you can’t say something nice, say nothing at all,” was likely taught to you by your parents. We’ve modified this coaching in business with “praise sandwiches”: criticisms wedged in between two generic compliments. Learn how this gives our brains indigestion.
Source: Fast Company, April 14, 2016.
Research has found that we remember concrete words like “chair” better than abstract words like “comfort.” As a result, if we hear a generic positive statement (“It’s great! You’re great!”) followed by a list of specific things we should change, our brains will quickly discount that quick splash of praise and focus entirely on the negatives.