Feedback is information that verifies a message. The best way to get feedback is to ask for it. Questioning, paraphrasing, and inviting comments and suggestions are all means of obtaining feedback that check understanding. Paraphrasing is the process of restating a message in one’s own words. If the receiver of the message can answer the question or paraphrase the message, communication has taken place.

The most common approach to getting feedback is to send the entire message and then ask, “Do you have any questions?” After we send a message and ask if there are questions, we often make another common error. We assume we are good communicators and that if no one asks a question, the communication is complete. In reality, recipients may have misunderstood the message.

Use the following four guidelines when seeking feedback on messages. Be open to feedback. Effective feedback providers are open to listening to others and to changes. There are no dumb questions, so invite questions. Be aware of nonverbal communication. Make sure that your nonverbal communication encourages feedback. You have to ask good questions to get good answers. When you send messages, you should know whether recipients understand the messages before taking action.

The most accurate indicator of understanding is paraphrasing. How you ask the receiver to paraphrase will affect their attitude.