How to balance feedback with encouragement

Throughout these chapters, I've stressed the importance of speaking in specific, behavioral terms that help people raise their performance. And while it's a crucial skill to learn as a new manager, I want to add that people still expect and value the human touch in the workplace. So it isn't my intention to turn you into an observational android who's devoid of warmth and character; rather to equip you with the flexibility and choice of response that best suits the situation. It was Albert Einstein who said:

"It would be possible to describe everything scientifically, but it would make no sense; it would be without meaning, as if you described a Beethoven symphony as a variation of wave pressure."

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So remember, people will still benefit from you casually saying "well done", "good work", and "great job" around the office!

Praise is a terrific motivator, and you should use it when it's appropriate to let people know that you notice and value...