Sandwich+Technique

What is the Sandwich Technique?
The sandwich technique is a form of constructive criticism that has worked well for us in regard to this project. When you use the sandwich technique, you "sandwich" one bad point between two good points. Start off with a good characteristic of the person, or special gift they have. Then put in the "but". Then always end it with another good point. Example: "You are so good at making those grilled cheese sandwiches. They taste so good. But I really wish you would clean up the kitchen area after you do it. It would help me out a lot. You are so good about helping me out around the house." Variations include:
 * What I liked most was...One way you could improve this is...One of your greatest strengths is...
 * The first thing I observed was that you did (____) right. Well done. Now if we can tweak this one thing (____) it'll be even better. There, you got it. You did great!

The purpose of using this technique is:
 * To relax the other person and help create a situation or a state-of-mind where he/she will be more open to receiving the criticism or advice.
 * To reduce the possibility that the other person will get angry with you for pointing out his/her faults.
 * To let others know that you are "on their side". Rather than being antagonistic, you are showing that you recognize their good points, too.
 * By closing with a positive statement, you remind the people of their strengths, their worth and their value. They are more likely to be motivated to accept the negative if they are reminded that they are "not all bad".