When to Give Dance Feedback: A Flowchart

As a teacher and student of partner dance—and a lover of flowcharts—I am intimately aware of the complexities of giving and receiving feedback. Many dancers are unaware (or neglectful) of the appropriate etiquette. Typically people are too quick to offer unsolicited feedback or too quick to assume that others will want their feedback. People are also often too slow to ask for the actual feedback they would like as well as reticent to speak up when they are in physical or psychological discomfort or pain.

So, I've crafted this flowchart about when to give dance feedback. (On the radar for the future is a chart about how to give feedback, which is another kettle of fish.) My hope is that it will help empower dancers to ask for feedback when they want it, direct the ensuing conversation toward their interests, and speak up for themselves in uncomfortable situations. I also hope that it will help dancers realize that others do not necessarily want their feedback and that not all settings are appropriate for giving feedback. I want dancers—nay, all people—to experience more personal agency in getting their needs met and respected by others.

Note from 4/9/19: In a discussion with a reader, another important consideration emerged: If someone requests your feedback, you should provide it only if you are willing and comfortable to do so. Just because a person asked for feedback (or met/didn't meet other criteria in the chart) does not mean that you are obligated to give feedback. The consent of both parties is essential. 

If you found this chart helpful, please feel free to download this chart for use in your own classes or dances.