Lesson 51: Give Yourself Effective Feedback Using the FBI Model
“Without feedback, you’re walking blind. With the right feedback, you can chart a clear path forward.”
— Anonymous
Why Self-Feedback Matters
Once you’ve recorded and reviewed your speech, the next step is turning observation into meaningful improvement. That’s where the FBI model comes in—a simple yet highly effective structure that brings clarity and objectivity to your reflections.
While the model is often used in peer feedback, it’s just as valuable when applied independently. It helps you move beyond vague impressions and focus on the real impact of your speaking behaviors.
What Is the FBI Model?
The FBI framework stands for:
Feedback – What did you notice? Stay neutral and specific.
Behavior – What action or habit did you observe? Focus on what was said or done.
Impact – What effect did that behavior have on the audience or the message?
This structure encourages clarity and helps separate fact from emotion.
Example:
Feedback: “I noticed I used the phrase ‘you know’ six times in the first minute.”
Behavior: “The repetition created unnecessary filler.”
Impact: “It distracted from my key message and reduced my perceived confidence.”
How to Use the FBI Model in Self-Reflection
As you re-watch your recording (or immediately after completing Lesson 50), use the table below to guide your thinking:
| Observation | Behavior (What did I do?) | Impact (How did it affect the audience?) |
|---|---|---|
| I shifted weight from foot to foot | I didn’t maintain a grounded posture | Created a visual distraction and reduced my presence |
| I paused intentionally after a question | I gave space for the idea to land | Increased reflection and engagement |
| My volume dropped at the end of sentences | I lost my breath support | Diminished impact of my conclusions |
Where to Focus First
You don’t need to fix everything at once. Focus on two or three patterns that are most likely to:
Increase your clarity
Strengthen your delivery
Improve your audience connection
Look for repeated behaviors rather than isolated moments—they’re easier to work on and offer the biggest return.
Interactive Task: Apply the FBI Model to Your Speech
Instructions:
Select a 2–3 minute portion of your recorded speech.
Identify three speaker behaviors—these could be strengths or areas for improvement.
For each behavior, complete the FBI table:
What did you notice?
What was the behavior?
What was the impact?
Summarize your findings:
One strength you want to continue building
One behavior you will intentionally improve
Final Reflection
Giving yourself feedback might feel unfamiliar at first. But over time, this kind of structured reflection becomes one of your most valuable tools. It allows you to monitor your growth with clarity, challenge your blind spots, and move from self-awareness to tangible progress.
“Feedback is not criticism. It’s information—your blueprint for progress.”
