360-Degree Feedback
A feedback process where employees receive input from supervisors, peers, and subordinates.
Also: 360 feedback · multi-rater assessment
Definition
360-degree feedback is a comprehensive performance assessment method in which an employee receives structured feedback from multiple sources, typically including their direct manager, peers, direct reports, and sometimes external stakeholders like clients. This multi-rater approach provides a holistic view of an employee's behaviors and competencies that a traditional top-down appraisal cannot capture. The feedback is typically used for developmental purposes rather than direct pay decisions.
Example
“After the 360-degree feedback process, the senior manager learned that while her peers rated her collaboration highly, her direct reports felt she was not accessible enough, leading to targeted coaching.”
Synonyms
- multi-rater feedback
- 360 feedback
- multi-source feedback
- all-round feedback
Antonyms / Opposites
- top-down feedback
- unidirectional feedback