The Problem with Traditional 360 Feedback

360-degree feedback has long been a staple in leadership development and performance management. At its best, it aims to offer a holistic view of an individual’s strengths and development areas by collecting feedback from peers, direct reports, managers, and even customers.

However, traditional 360s often fail to deliver the transformational outcomes they promise and can even demotivate the very people they’re meant to develop.

Why Conventional 360s Often Backfire

Decades of peer-reviewed research highlights several flaws in standard 360 feedback methods. Poorly designed or executed surveys can lead to disengagement and even performance decline.

Traditional 360s that focus too heavily on negative traits or deficits can erode self-confidence and trust, especially if not framed constructively. Neuroscience supports this, showing that criticism activates the brain’s threat response, causing people to shut down or resist rather than reflect and grow.

The Risks of Poor Implementation

The impact is even more damaging when 360s are rolled out without the right context or support. Without coaching or follow-up, employees may feel judged, exposed, or even ambushed.

Bias (conscious or unconscious) can easily creep in, distorting feedback and reinforcing inequities. This is particularly harmful for women and professionals from underrepresented backgrounds who already face systemic barriers at work.

It’s Time for a Better Approach

Clearly, we need a more human and effective model of feedback. That’s where TalentPredix™ 360 comes in – a modern, strengths-based alternative that turns feedback into a positive, empowering, and inclusive experience.

What Makes TalentPredix™ 360 Different?

Unlike conventional 360s, TalentPredix™ 360 doesn’t dwell on deficits. It helps individuals understand and apply their unique strengths, values, and motivators, while constructively highlighting blind spots and growth areas in a psychologically safe way.

This strengths-first approach inspires higher engagement, motivation, and a genuine desire to grow.

Designed for Impact, Backed by Science

What sets TalentPredix™ 360 apart is more than just its positivity – it’s the deep science and thoughtful design behind it.

Created by leading business psychologists with nearly three decades of experience in strengths assessment and development, the tool uses inclusive, strengths-based language and forward-focused feedback to ensure every individual is recognised for their unique contribution – not boxed in by outdated behavioural checklists or bias-laden frameworks.

The Future of Feedback is Strengths-Based

The result? A feedback culture where people feel energised, not criticised. Where 360s are welcomed, not feared. And where leaders and teams are empowered to optimise their strengths and reach their full potential.

Empowering Growth in a Fast-Changing World

In today’s volatile, fast-paced world, organisations need more inclusive, innovative, and people-first approaches to develop talent. Traditional 360s often reinforce limitations. TalentPredix™ 360 does the opposite – it uncovers potential, inspires growth, and creates workplaces where people thrive.

Tired of feedback that demotivates rather than develops?

It’s time to shift from outdated, deficit-focused 360 reviews to a strengths-based, empowering feedback experience. Discover how TalentPredix™ 360 helps HR leaders and coaches foster inclusive growth, boost engagement, and unlock potential.

Get in touch or Book a free demo of TalentPredix™ 360 today.

About the Author

James is a leadership and talent consultant, business psychologist, and executive coach. He has over 25 years’ experience working with leaders, teams, and organizations to optimize their talent, performance, and future success.

Before moving into consulting, James held corporate leadership roles in People and Talent Management in the UK and abroad with companies such as Yahoo! and Novo Nordisk Pharmaceuticals. Since moving into talent consulting and assessment design, he has supported leaders and teams globally across many sectors and geographies. Clients he has worked with include Allen & Overy, Commvault, Equinor, Graze, LVMH, Facebook, GSK, Hilton, John Lewis, Novartis Pharmaceuticals, NHS, Oracle, Sainsbury's, Swiss Re, Tesco, WSP and Yahoo! James has founded and run several ventures, including Strengthscope®, an international strengths assessment and development business, that he sold in 2018.

James has a Master’s in Organizational Psychology, an MBA, and an Advanced Diploma in Executive Coaching. He is a regular writer and speaker on talent assessment and development, leadership, and the future of work.