ABSTRACT
The preceding chapter describes multisource ratings (360-degree and upward performance evaluation surveys) as a source of feedback. They provide a systematic way of collecting and delivering performance feedback that may be more broadly representative than relying on feedback from supervisors. The preceding chapter describes ways to enhance the value of multisource feedback, such as ensuring that raters and recipients understand the elements of performance rated and the purpose of the results. However, several critical questions need to be answered: What determines whether people use the feedback? and Do these ratings actually change behavior and improve performance? This chapter explores research that addresses these questions. As you read this chapter, remember that the results suggest how people react to and use feedback in general, not just multisource feedback. As such, the literature on multisource feedback has become a rich source for understanding how to make feedback more valuable in organizations.
