A young woman gives feedback to another
Leadership & HR
30.01.2026 Isabel Hempel 68916

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.

Giving feedback made easy:

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.

This Vimeo content can only be loaded if you accept the privacy policy of Vimeo, LLC.

To the data protection settings "

pme Academy: Our 360° offers for managers

Personnel management, communication, error culture, digital leadership - with our webinars and training courses in the 360° series, we focus directly on the day-to-day work of team leaders. For experienced managers and junior staff.

pme Academy

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 7 tips for a successful "Dry January"

Friends drink cocoa
Body & Soul
08.12.2025 Christin Müller 6142

Dry January: alcohol-free into the new year

At the beginning of the new year, many people resolve to give up alcohol and join the "Dry January" movement. Are you one of them? We'll show you strategies you can use to successfully stick to your resolution in January and beyond.

"I won't drink from tomorrow!"

The "Dry January" initiative has been growing in popularity for years. There is a real movement of people who - after the traditionally alcohol-heavy Christmas celebrations and New Year's Eve parties - give up alcohol completely from New Year's Day until January 31.

Implementing resolutions in the long term with "Mini Habits"

"Mini habits" can help to ensure that it doesn't just remain a good intention but is also successful in the long term. These are small, low-threshold habits that you establish in your everyday life until they trigger a lasting positive change.

You can read exactly how to do this in the article: "Change your life sustainably with Mini Habits".

Days of sick leave due to alcohol at an all-time high

A trend that is well worth emulating when looking at the latest figures from AOK Rheinland/Hamburg. The number of days of incapacity to work due to alcohol-related illnesses has reached an all-time high. In 2022, employees were absent from work for an average of 15.3 days per 100 insured persons due to alcohol problems. Men and older employees aged 50 to 59 are particularly affected.

What are the benefits of Dry January?

But what good is a "dry month" like this for my health if I find myself reaching for a glass more often the rest of the year? First and foremost, you can say that every drop of alcohol that I don't drink is good for my body and my psyche," explains nutritional therapist Giannina Schmelling. "Dry January can therefore offer a valuable opportunity to reflect on your own relationship with alcohol and make lasting positive changes to your lifestyle."

We have a few tips to help you make a successful alcohol-free start to the new year.

7 tips for a successful "Dry January":

1. set clear goals

Define your motivation for the alcohol-free month. Do you want to improve your health, lose weight or simply review your drinking habits?

2. seek support

Share your plans with friends or family. Shared goals increase the chances of success and provide mutual motivation.

3. find alternatives

Discover non-alcoholic drinks that taste good. There is now a wide range of non-alcoholic beers, wines and cocktails that can make it easier to give up alcohol.

4. identify triggers

Analyze situations in which you normally drink alcohol and plan alternative activities to avoid temptation.

5. reflect and document progress

Make a note of how you feel physically, emotionally and mentally and remind yourself of the positive effects to keep motivating yourself to drink in moderation.

6. plan for rewards

Allow yourself small rewards for intermediate goals that you have achieved to keep you motivated.

7. professional help (if you find it difficult to keep the month going)

Are you counting down the days until the end of January until you can finally drink again? This could be a serious sign of an unfavorable relationship with alcohol. In this case, it helps to contact a counseling center such as the life coaching provided by pme Familienservice.

Dry for the long term: tips for the time after "Dry January"

The difficult part is sticking with it in the long term. We often abandon regulatory strategies without offering a substitute. For the simple resolution: "I won't drink from tomorrow!" to be successful in the long term, a sustainable strategy is needed. "As soon as external stimuli such as stress, excessive demands or loneliness are added, a quick relapse is inevitable," emphasizes nutrition expert Giannina Schmelling. These tips will help you stay abstinent in the long term.

1. also set clear and realistic goals for the time afterwards

After a "withdrawal phase", there is a risk of "overcompensating" in the following months, in which you consume more alcohol to compensate for the loss. You should therefore set clear and realistic goals for the time afterwards and consider in January how you want to manage your alcohol consumption in the long term.

2. introduce conscious drinking rules

"No alcohol on weekdays" or "No more than two drinks per occasion" are examples of drinking rules. These self-restrictions help to avoid relapsing into old habits.

3. look for like-minded people

It can sometimes be very difficult to cut down on alcohol consumption if your best friends or family members drink alcohol. Look for like-minded people who are also following your path - for example, an online group or a new sports group to keep you motivated in the long term.

4. take the lessons learned from Dry January to heart

Long-term motivation is the most difficult thing. Take the above tips to heart and reflect on the changes you notice. Are you already feeling better physically, have you already been able to save money that you didn't spend on alcohol or have you already made new friends who are joining you on your new path?

5. consult with an expert if necessary

If you are unsure how to develop a healthy approach to alcohol, consider seeking medical or therapeutic advice. Especially after regular consumption, professional support can help you find a long-term balance.

Health impulses with the pme "Healthy Bites"

Looking for a small portion of well-being? Our "Healthy Bites" give you ideas for more relaxation, balance, activity and feel-good moments in your everyday work and private life.

They are not a substitute for professional help from counselors and psychologists. Please seek professional advice, for example from pme Familienservice Lebenslagen-Coaching, if you have addiction problems, permanent depression, persistent disproportionate stress and deeper mental problems.