What is Constructive Criticism?

Constructive criticism is the process of offering valid and well-reasoned opinions about the work of others, usually involving both positive and negative comments, in a friendly manner rather than an oppositional one

Why constructive criticism is good for you?

Constructive criticism can help all of us succeed in the workplace or in life.

• Helps to give us a new perspective and opens our eyes to things we may have overlooked or never considered.

• Shows that your managers and peers care about you and want to see you succeed. (Rather than letting you fail and replacing you, these people feel that you're the right person for the job and they want you on their team.)

• Creates a transparent and collaborative environment where everyone is able to share feedback and constructive criticism.

Our Belief

Constructive criticism is one of those necessary evils in the workplace. It’s what pushes you to become a better employee, and what you rely on to get the best out of everybody around you.

How to process Constructive Criticism.

The next time you receive constructive criticism from your manager or a peer, use this process to handle the encounter with grace.

• Don't react Immediately
  1. At the first sign of criticism, before you do anything - STOP. Try not to react at all
  2. Halt a dismissive facial expression or reactive quip
  3. Remind yourself to stay calm.
  4. Stop thinking - They just want to make you feel bad! They’re giving their own ego a boost by putting you down!
• Don’t get defensive
  1. At the first sight of constructive criticism - we want to argue and deny it intensely.
  2. Resist the urge to immediately defend yourself
  3. Hear the person out. You might be surprised by what you learn about yourself in the process.
• Remember the benefit of Feedback
  1. Though it can be challenging to receive criticism from a co-worker or someone that you don’t fully respect.
  2. Maybe to improve your skills, product, or relationships at work OR to help you meet the expectations that your manager and others have of you.
  3. Use a few seconds to remember all the benefits you could have by getting this constructive criticism
• Be a good Listener
  1. Now, when you've done all the above steps, it's time to listen closely to the feedback
  2. Allow the person to share their complete thoughts, without interruption.
  3. At this point, avoid analyzing or questioning the person’s assessment. Focus on understanding
• Ask Questions
  1. Now, it's time to ask questions to get some clarity and ensure that you’re understanding things correctly
  2. Avoid engaging in a debate; instead, ask questions to get to the root of actual issues.
  3. When they’re done, you can also repeat back what you heard. E.g. I understand you saying that you want me to be available on time in the morning, is that right?
  4. You also can ask for more details about how they think you could improve. E.g. I’d love to hear your ideas on the same.
• Show Gratitude
  1. Most difficult step.
  2. Gratitude means thanks and appreciation
  3. Look the person in the eyes and thank them for sharing feedback with you.
  4. Remember, this person is taking the time to help you get better. E.g. I really appreciate you taking the time to talk about this with me.
• Follow up
  1. The real magic of constructive criticism isn’t just in receiving it - it’s in implementing it.
  2. Once you receive the Constructive Criticism, then, after some time has passed, take proactive steps to follow up with the same person who offered the original feedback
  3. This will give you a chance to get their perspective on whether you're on the right track or not.

In short,

Constructive criticism is often the only way we learn about our weaknesses - without it we can’t improve.