“You’re doing it wrong.”
“You could be doing it better.”
“I see room for improvement.”
“So I guess we should probably go ahead and have a little talk.”
“I’m also going to need you to go ahead and come in on Sunday, too.”
Workplace feedback from managers can be an anxiety-inducing prospect, especially when, from some managers, even an unqualified Good job can be patronizing or dismissive. Pep talks laced with comments such as “You’re not living up to your potential” can also elicit a sense of dread from employees when their managers stop by their desk or send an email.