Constructive Criticism
Constructive criticism
By Darrell L. Browning
Many of us are critical of others. Who among us can't find something wrong at work? Even worse; some attack personalities rather than issues. Others focus on the negative without ever seeing or recognizing positive efforts around them. Are people bound to be negative first and positive begrudgingly?
Not necessarily.
Surprisingly, much of how people see their organization is driven by the character and integrity displayed by leaders of the organization. When it comes to criticism, how the message is communicated matters. You can't just tell someone something and expect it to be readily accepted--especially if it is critical in nature. Desired behavior should be emulated and backed up with dialogue messages. It's okay to repeat yourself--few people get things the first time around. Here are a few additional things you should consider when offering constructive criticism:
One other thing: offer criticism, if possible, in person. Keep a record of what was said and who agreed to do what. Accountability is a cornerstone of improvement.
For more information see http://www.browninglafrankie.com.
©BrowningLaFrankie 2009
By Darrell L. Browning
Many of us are critical of others. Who among us can't find something wrong at work? Even worse; some attack personalities rather than issues. Others focus on the negative without ever seeing or recognizing positive efforts around them. Are people bound to be negative first and positive begrudgingly?
Not necessarily.
Surprisingly, much of how people see their organization is driven by the character and integrity displayed by leaders of the organization. When it comes to criticism, how the message is communicated matters. You can't just tell someone something and expect it to be readily accepted--especially if it is critical in nature. Desired behavior should be emulated and backed up with dialogue messages. It's okay to repeat yourself--few people get things the first time around. Here are a few additional things you should consider when offering constructive criticism:
- Base It On Fact. Don't speculate or allude to something of which you are unsure.
- Identify the Source. Avoid saying things like "People are saying..." What people? Who said what? When? Under what circumstances? People have a right to know.
- Don't Ambush Others. This isn't the Wild West, and you aren't in a cowboy movie. You can be nice about saying a review of the project is in order. Don't beat around (or hide behind) the bush. Come out in the open.
- Offer an Alternative. It drives people crazy simply to be told they are wrong. Show them another way of doing it or how it might have been done. Look at what others have done in the past when confronted with such problems.
- Remember to be Positive. It is critical that those you want to improve see the benefit of improving. Recognize mistakes, but then move on to a brighter, more successful tomorrow.
One other thing: offer criticism, if possible, in person. Keep a record of what was said and who agreed to do what. Accountability is a cornerstone of improvement.
For more information see http://www.browninglafrankie.com.
©BrowningLaFrankie 2009