This article is based on our experience of conducting 360° feedback in a few good companies, my presentation on behalf of "All India Management Association" addressed from IGNOU studio to the students of AIMA - MBA course, my study of case studies published from time to time in different magazines and study of select articles in foreign magazines and books.

Importance:
Survival in the 21st century demands leadership development at all levels of management including plant operators. This also demands attention to evaluation systems related to people development, so that there is a proper focus not only on the bottom line but also on development and growth of the human capital. 360° feedback is a most effective system for analyzing one's relative strengths from other's perspective, the juniors, the peers and the seniors and match them with our perception. However, inspite of the advantages that this system offers, 360° feedback has not become the order of the day, because of many challenges that it faces.

The Major Challenges

• Clarity of objectives
• Selection of dimensions and issues for feedback
• Tendency of over positive rating by self
• Unbiased approach by juniors, peers and seniors
• Ability to absorb feedback without being defensive
• Lack of proper understanding of the issues and right judgement on present level of strengths
• Want of proper attention and seriousness to development exercise by the top management
• Presentation and sharing of report (how to create a healthy atmosphere for leadership development)

Tackling these challenges needs expertise. This will be explained in coming issues. The readers may ask for articles on 360° feedback which will be sent to them on a charge of Rs. 100/- to meet courier and other costs.

S. K. Shahi

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