Business psychologist Vera Starker: "Hate is destructive - confidence is the exact opposite"

Leadership & HR

30.01.2026 Isabel Hempel 68932

5-finger feedback: tips for good feedback

By Darina Doubravova (Head of pme Academy) and Isabel Hempel (Editor)

Group feedback at the end of a seminar or team meeting is beneficial for everyone. We present effective methods for giving constructive feedback. For example, 5-finger feedback is a practical and easy-to-understand method for constructive feedback in teams and seminars. With the help of the five fingers, differentiated feedback on positive aspects, notable points, points of criticism, learnings, and missing points can be obtained quickly and easily. The method ensures clarity, appreciation, and improvements in everyday work. Get tips and variations on how to use it and possible alternatives here.

1. Five-finger method - Each finger represents a statement

One method of giving quick and constructive feedback is the five-finger model. Each finger stands for a question that you answer in one or two sentences. Start with the tops!

Thumbs: I thought that was great! For example: "I particularly liked the fact that the discussions were open and constructive. The atmosphere was pleasant and everyone expressed themselves freely."

Pointing finger: I noticed that! For example. "I noticed that some topics were addressed several times. There were often similarities in the participants' observations."

Middle finger: I didn't like that! For example: "Some discussions dragged on, which made it difficult to focus on the key points. I would have liked a clearer structure here."

Ring finger: I'll take that with me! For example: "I have received valuable suggestions and new perspectives that I can incorporate into future projects."

Little finger: I didn't get enough of that! For example: "Unfortunately, there was little time for in-depth discussion of possible solutions. I would have liked some ideas to have been dealt with in more depth."

If time is short or the feedback should be more concise, only three fingers can be used, for example the thumb (positives), the ring finger (insights), the little finger (I missed that).

2. one-minute paper

Another method is the "one-minute paper" according to Werner Stangl. At the end of a team meeting, everyone receives a blank sheet of paper.

First, everyone writes all the positive feedback and thoughts on one side:

What have I understood?
What did I like?
What inspired/motivated me?
Where have I been able to work?

Any unclear or critical thoughts are written down on the back:

What have I not quite understood?
What touched me little?
What didn't I like?
What have I not been able to participate in?

An evaluation can take place immediately or at the beginning of the next meeting. The evaluation is carried out either by the manager or by a team member or participant.

Afterwards, the group's results are presented, the feedback is interpreted, and suggestions for possible changes and consequences are developed : What could be done differently next time?

3. especially for managers: How can I give feedback in difficult situations?

When it comes to addressing something that makes teamwork difficult, it is important to give feedback. But that is not so easy.

The tone must be right, and the words should be chosen wisely.

Executive coach Nina Lizon explains in this video how you, as a manager, can give constructive feedback.

Have fun testing these methods!

Are you familiar with our e-learning course on feedback?

It is not always easy to find the right words for constructive feedback. In our e-learning course on feedback, you can reflect on your own habits and receive helpful suggestions.

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FAQs about 5-finger feedback

What is the 5-finger feedback?

The 5-finger feedback is a structured model for quick feedback. Each finger represents a specific aspect of feedback: positive, noteworthy, criticism, insights, and missing.

How does the 5-finger feedback work in practice?

Each team member makes a brief statement about each of the five fingers. First, the positive aspects (thumb) are highlighted, followed by the other points in the order of the fingers.

When is this method particularly suitable?

The model is ideal for use at the end of meetings, workshops, seminars, or feedback sessions—especially when feedback needs to be gathered quickly and constructively.

How can I use the 5-finger feedback digitally?

The method also works via video conference, in chats, or with online whiteboards. Each participant can submit their answers in writing, and the results are discussed together.

What to do if the feedback is critical?

It is important to establish an appreciative framework and to treat criticism in a solution-oriented manner. Managers should address specific points of criticism and work with the team to formulate solutions.

zero Business psychologist Vera Starker: "Hate is destructive - confidence is the exact opposite"

Psyche

14.03.2025 Isabel Hempel 13887

Business psychologist Vera Starker on confidence

Vera Starker is certain that confidence can help us shape our lives and society in a positive way, especially in uncertain times. In this interview, the Spiegel bestselling author talks about how confidence can act as a formative force in our society. She shares personal experiences and gives impulses on how we can remain optimistic in times of crisis and actively bring about positive change.

For me, "being courageous" means acting despite fears

"Courage to be confident" is a very powerful title. What inspired you personally to write a book that deals intensively with this topic?

Vera Starker: I am a confident person by nature. But last year, I realized that all the negative news was increasingly sapping my energy. This led me to take a closer look at the topic of confidence on a scientific level.

For me, "being courageous" means acting despite fears. And confidence is the key to finding this courage. At a time when we are confronted with many uncertainties, we need the confidence to embrace positive change and take action.

In your book, you emphasize the transformative power of confidence. How do you see the role of confidence as a shaping force in our society?

Confidence has the potential to keep us capable of acting, even in the midst of crises. It enables us not to remain powerless, but to actively seek solutions to solve complex problems.

Especially in the future, in a world full of challenges, the power of confidence will be crucial in order to continuously adapt and enable positive change. Without confidence, all we can do is hesitate - with confidence, we can create.

In your opinion, what is the first step that each of us can take to actively bring about positive change?

It is important to recognize where we can actually make an impact. Confidence arises above all when we have the feeling that we can make a difference. We should focus on the areas where we can make a direct difference instead of being overwhelmed by things that are beyond our reach.

The next step is to set realistic goals that match our skills. If we set ourselves goals that are too high and cannot be achieved, we lose our sense of effectiveness. The power of confidence lies in remaining capable of action and bringing about positive change in the areas over which we have influence.

Hate is destructive - confidence is the exact opposite

In one chapter of your book, you deal intensively with the topic of hate. How can we as a society learn to overcome hate and what role does confidence play in bringing about positive change?

Vera Starker: Hate is destructive - confidence is the exact opposite. We have to decide whether we react to hate or rely on confidence. Confidence means clearly recognizing challenges and then looking for opportunities to act - even if they seem small at first.

It is crucial to surround yourself with people who also have a constructive attitude and strive for positive change. Cohesion creates a force that enables us to move in a positive direction as a society.

Was there a personal moment in your life when "courage to be confident" played a decisive role for you? If so, could you tell us more about it?

Vera Starker: Yes, in my youth I had some very challenging human experiences that presented me with a difficult decision: Should these events define my life or could I overcome them?

I decided to overcome them, which made me realize that there is always a way - no matter how small it may seem. However, sometimes it takes great courage not to give up and to keep going.

This moment taught me that confidence doesn't mean closing your eyes to problems, but finding the courage to carry on despite everything.

Lectures, workshops, podcasts that promote our resilience

The "Lost in Space?" initiative invites us with openness and curiosity to explore new paths that give us support and direction in these intense times. Because finding solutions requires strength - and is only possible together.

With inspiring talks, interactive workshops, podcasts and blog articles, we create space to find inner clarity and strength and remain resilient. Join us on an exciting journey to new perspectives and opportunities!