My wife has recently started a business, part of which involves writing a blog that provides hints and tips on deals or discounts for days out in the UK.  It is a very new venture and this week one of the people reading the blog (a complete stranger of course) left a comment .... "Hi, wicked blog. Keep up the good work!".

We sometimes forget how great a feeling it is to get positive feedback.  Performance appraisals often concentrate on "how to improve" and most 360 degree feedback reports have "top 10 areas for improvement" or similar.  But, being encouraged has an uplifting effect that leads us to want to continue.  For someone starting a new venture it is particularly supportive. 

One other salient point.  Starting a new venture is like being a new employee.  It is filled with uncertainty.  In performance appraisals we often exclude new starters - a mistake for sure.  They may not need the same performance appraisal form but they will welcome positive feedback and encouragement.

Brendan