HOW TO CRITICISE
Constructive criticism is clear, direct, honest, and easy to implement. It provides specific examples and actionable suggestions for positive change. This type of feedback also highlights ways the recipient can make positive improvements in their behavior to minimize future problems.
Deconstructive criticism
Destructive criticism, on the other hand, focuses solely on the problem. This kind of feedback offers no encouragement, help, or support for improvement. Despite the deliverer’s intentions, it often lowers morale and reduces confidence.
Offer a “feedback sandwich”
Be specific with your feedback
Focus on behavior, not the person
Keep timing in mind
Use the “l” language technique
Alongside identifying areas for improvement, suggest practical steps or strategies that can help the recipient address the concerns effectively
What to avoid when giving constructive criticism
Avoid personal attacks:
Don’t make assumptions:
Don’t withhold praise
How to receive constructive criticism
Remember the benefits of getting feedback
Take time for reflection.
Every one of us has experienced negative emotions, anger and the urge to criticise the other at some point of time. However, skillfully communicating our displeasure or anger has a technique and there are right and wrong ways of doing the same. Similarly, there is a right way to receive criticism also in order to improve ourselves or correct our mistakes. This article discusses just that.
What is constructive criticism?
Constructive criticism is a way of giving negative feedback to a person in a way which helps them improve upon their mistakes without insulting or demeaning the person. Constructive criticism is clear, direct, honest, and easy to implement. It provides specific examples and actionable suggestions for positive change. This is especially applicable when we are communicating with children or employees where we want to see a change in behaviour.
What are the ways to deliver constructive criticism?
- Be specific in your feedback: focus the the wrong behaviour at hand and don’t connect it with previous misdemeanours. If your child has not cleaned up his/her room after being asked talk only about that, donot bring other matters like their academic performance, friends, lifestyle into it. This dilutes the topic at hand also puts the other person in a defensive state of mind.
- Focus on the behaviour and not the person: only discuss the particular behaviour that is problematic without attaching judgement or generalising to the person. We have to keep in mind that no one is perfect.
- Mind the timing: it is difficult for anyone to receive constructive criticism in the middle of heated argument or when angry. Reserve it for a later timing after both of you have cooled down enough for rational conversation.
