Cultures Are Gardens, Not Machines

Culture isn’t built with edicts. It grows like a garden — slowly, organically, with consistent tending.

360-degree Feedback is a powerful gardener's tool. When used wisely, it fertilizes Trust, waters transparency, and roots growth deep into the soil.

Why 360 Feedback Supports a Feedback Culture

When employees see Feedback flowing in all directions — manager to peer, peer to manager, team to leader — they:

• Trust the process more

• Feel seen and heard

• Learn that Feedback is about development, not punishment

Key Practices for Building a Feedback Culture with 360 Feedback

1. Lead From the Top

Leaders must model vulnerability. When executives openly participate in 360 processes, it signals safety and seriousness.

2. Normalize Frequent, Low-Stakes Feedback

Annual Feedback feels like a thunderstorm. Regular Feedback feels like rain nurturing a field.

Encourage mini-360s, pulse feedback, and “in-the-moment” appreciations.

3. Celebrate Growth Stories

Highlight success stories where Feedback led to real positive change.

Storytelling roots culture deeper than policy ever could.

Example: Feedback Flourishing

A mid-sized tech firm embedded quarterly 360 mini-reviews. Employee engagement rose by 22% within two years, and internal promotions doubled.

The garden flourished.

Closing Reflection

Feedback cultures aren’t decreed. They’re cultivated — lovingly, persistently, bravely.