360 degree feedback is away of gaining insight on your performance from a number of your colleagues. The great thing about this type of review is that, instead of simply using the opinion of one person (your boss), you also get to see reviews and suggestions from other colleagues as well. This gives you an much more balanced view of the impact of your performance on the people in your area of influence at work.
The keys to a good 360 review process are that reviewer can provide their feedback anonymously, and the report is confidential. The people who can provide feedback in a 360 review are your manager, your direct reports, peers, and of course, yourself. Other groups such as customers, suppliers or other stakeholders can also be included if appropriate.
These days, the most effective 360 feedback systems are online. This provides the advantages of greater efficiency, guaranteed confidentiality, and in most cases, the expertise of a dedicated supplier of 360 feedback.
Questionnaires are completed by all reviewers. Usually, these include ratings scale responses and some free text responses. The reviews are compiled into a report showing strengths and areas where some development might be useful. Reports are generally used as part of a development plan and a one-to-one feedback session with a trained facilitator is advisable to ensure that the individual gets the most out of the feedback they have been given.
