An exploration of feedback orientation in library workers

Abstract

Feedback orientation is a measure of individual attitudes and receptivity towards feedback. Library managers and workers need to be aware of this individual difference to effectively leverage feedback for individual and organizational success. This exploratory study provides an evaluation and baseline measure of feedback orientation in libraries along with an analysis of individual and organizational factors that predict feedback orientation in library workers. An online survey of library workers (n = 332) revealed overall feedback orientation is in line with other professions. Findings show positive dispositional affect, affective-based interpersonal trust in the direct supervisor relationship, and employee's perception of organizational fairness, are all predictors of feedback orientation in library workers. This study generates awareness of feedback orientation in libraries and has implications for practice, especially for library supervisors who can tailor their feedback approaches to meet the needs of individual employees.