Giving feedback to others that results in the change you want

I once went to an amazing workshop by a photographer, Craig Tanner, called the Myth of Talent. One story he told has stuck with me for at least 15 years. I can't find it on the internet to link, so I shall do my feeble attempt at repeating it.

Imagine you are in a room full of people. The leader of the group asks for a volunteer to leave the room, return blindfolded, and find an object now hidden in the room. The audience is asked to stamp their feet every time the volunteer turns away from the target. Most people give up in seconds.

But when the audience is asked to clap louder as the person gets closer, nearly all the volunteers find the object very quickly.

So are you stamping your feet or clapping your hands? Are you getting the results you want?

Ann, you are totally right about feedback. When I was a young manager trainee I learned that studies have proven this idea of feedback being more motivational than money, promotions and all other benefits. I have absolutely found this to be true. Thank you for this post