Dictionary definition of “praise sandwich”

praise sandwich

n. criticism prefaced by and followed by compliments. Subjects: English

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Citations: 1987 Julia Duin Houston Chronicle (Texas) (Sept. 21) “Distractions often obscured purpose of papal visit” p. 9: He may not have cracked the whip this time. Rather he pulled on the reins. He came up with a “praise sandwich,” criticism buffered by layers of affirmation. 2000 Rick Wolff Coaching Kids for Dummies (Mar. 7) p. 46: A slice of praise.…A slice of constructive criticism.…Note that even the criticism is still covered in praise. You want the youngster to really absorb what you have just said.…The final bit of praise.…And that’s the praise sandwich. 2005 Max Mignon Tricks of the Trade (Jan. 24) “Corporate Middle Manager”: When giving constructive criticism to an employee, open with some comments about something the employee has done well recently. Then address the bad stuff, but make it quick and to the point, like a shot. Close with another positive item. The employee leaves feeling better about the meeting than if you just gave them the criticism, and you’ve done your job of being the benevolent task master. In the trade, this is known as a “praise sandwich.”

Posted 23 Mar 05 | Permalink | Tell a Friend