Creating a Culture Where Feedback Feels Welcoming

Feedback. Just the word can make some people shudder—especially if it’s associated with being told off or only hearing about mistakes. But on a busy dairy farm, feedback is crucial. It’s not just about fixing issues; it’s about growing, improving, and making life easier for everyone on the team.

The challenge? Building a culture where feedback isn’t a source of dread but something your team welcomes. Here’s how to create that kind of environment on your farm:

 1. Flip the Script: Feedback Isn’t Just Criticism

Too often, feedback is only given when something goes wrong. Break that habit. Make it a point to give positive feedback regularly. Did someone go the extra mile in helping a mate? Nail a tricky task? Show up with a great attitude on a tough day? Say so!

 When your team hears positive feedback often, they’ll start seeing feedback as a normal, balanced part of work—not just a red flag.

2. Be Clear on Why Feedback Matters

Start a conversation about feedback with your team. Explain that feedback isn’t about pointing fingers—it’s about supporting each other, improving systems, and making the farm run more smoothly.

 When people understand the "why" behind feedback, they’re less likely to take it personally and more likely to see it as an opportunity to grow.

3. Create Safe Spaces for Conversations

The way feedback is delivered makes a massive difference. If someone hears, “We need to talk,” and they’re instantly on edge, they’re probably already bracing for bad news. Instead:

• Choose the right moment: Avoid giving feedback when emotions are high, like after a stressful milking session.

• Pick a comfortable setting: Somewhere private where the person feels respected and heard.

• Start with kindness: Acknowledge their strengths or recent wins before diving into constructive points.

4. Make It a Two-Way Street

Feedback shouldn’t only come from the top down. Ask your team for their input too. Questions like, “How do you think this system is working?” or “Is there anything I can do to make your day easier?” show you value their opinions.

 When team members feel heard, they’re more likely to welcome feedback and offer suggestions to improve the farm’s processes.

5. Train for the Tough Conversations

Giving constructive feedback is a skill, and like any skill, it can be learned. Practice delivering feedback that’s specific, actionable, and focused on behaviours—not the person.

 For example, instead of saying, “You’re careless with the machinery,” try, “I noticed the equipment wasn’t cleaned after use yesterday. Let’s make sure we’re keeping things tidy for the next shift.”

6. Celebrate Progress

When feedback leads to improvements, celebrate it! Whether it’s a small shout-out in the morning meeting or a casual “Thanks for making that adjustment—it’s really helped,” recognition shows that feedback is worth it.

7. Normalise Feedback as a Regular Part of Farm Life

If feedback is rare, it can feel like a big deal when it happens. Instead, make feedback a regular part of farm life. Incorporate it into weekly check-ins or team meetings.

 This normalisation takes the sting out of feedback and makes it just another tool for keeping the farm running smoothly.

A Final Thought

The ultimate goal is to shift the mindset about feedback. It’s not about pointing out what’s wrong; it’s about recognising what’s working and what could be even better. 

When your team knows that feedback is coming from a place of respect and care, you’ll build trust, boost morale, and create an environment where everyone—cows included—can thrive.

 If you’re not sure how to start giving feedback or want some support to make it work on your farm, Lone Star Consulting is here to help. We can provide practical advice, tools, and templates to help you build a feedback-friendly culture that works for your team. Let’s chat about how we can help your farm thrive!