JOINT BASE CHARLESTON, S.C. –
We all have had some good and bad raters; I would hope more good than bad. We all can be better raters if we follow some of the tips in AFPAM 36- 2241, Professional Development Guide.
First, raters need to know their people. There needs to be lines of trust developed between the two. Raters need to know their Airmen on a personal and professional level to be better prepared for the feedback session.
During the rating session, the rater needs to be specific about items being discussed. As a rater, you should discuss areas that individuals need to change or work on; not just tell them to change but help them come up with solutions and ideas to make changes. A good rater helps guide the individual in the right direction but ultimately, it is up to the individual to make the right choices. During the session, raters should discuss what they have seen in the ratees performance. Raters should base their feedback against Air Force standards, not their personal opinions or biases.
Listening is a big issue during feedbacks. Raters need to listen to their ratees and actually hear and understand what their Airmen are saying. By listening, you may pick up ways of helping the individual being rated or find out what is going on with your Airmen. Do not make your feedbacks a one-sided conversion; let your Airmen speak.
Feedback sessions are very important and should be taking seriously. As a rater you can develop great Airmen during these sessions or let them fall by the way side. Feedbacks should always end on a positive note. Let the Airman know they are important and worthwhile.
Remember communication is the key during feedback sessions.